5 Tips to Protect Yourself During Coronavirus
During the coronavirus outbreak, it’s important to do whatever you can to help stop the spread of the illness. There is no vaccine for the virus, so the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed.
Older people, those with compromised immune systems, and those with serious underlying medical conditions (heart disease, diabetes, etc.) are at a higher risk for developing more severe complications from COVID-19. That’s why it’s essential to help stop the spread.
Follow these helpful tips to save lives and protect yourself during coronavirus:
Know the Symptoms
It takes five days on average to start showing the symptoms of coronavirus, but it varies from person to person. If you’re exposed and infected, symptoms can show up in as few as two days or as many as 14. Some people do not show signs at all when infected, but they are carriers of the virus and can still spread it.
These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure:
- Fever
- Dry Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
Coronavirus can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death. If you notice the following symptoms on yourself or a loved one, get medical attention right away:
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Ongoing chest pain or pressure
- Confusion
- Bluish lips or face
If you feel sick or have mild symptoms, immediately self-quarantine for 14 days.
Practice Social Distancing
Putting distance between yourself and others is essential to avoid spreading the virus. Stay at least 6 feet from others if you need to go out in public. Additionally, refrain from gathering with ten or more people. While social distancing may seem difficult, it is necessary to avoid close contact with people that don’t live with you.
Stay at least 3 feet away from someone who is sick, including live-in family members. COVID-19 can spread through respiratory droplets, which are easy to breathe in if you are close to someone who has the virus and is coughing.
Keep Things Clean
You can become infected with the virus by touching a surface or object the virus is on, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. Coronavirus can live for many hours on various types of surfaces (for example, it can last on plastic or stainless steel for 2 to 3 days). Because of this, you need to disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces to get rid of the virus.
Using hand sanitizer and washing your hands frequently can also help you avoid getting sick. Make sure your children wash their hands often to help stop the spread of coronavirus in kids.
Practice Respiratory Hygiene
Most of the time, COVID-19 spreads when a sick person coughs or sneezes. If you need to sneeze or cough, remember to:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a thick tissue.
- Sneeze or cough into your elbow.
- Don’t sneeze into your hands.
- Wash your hands whenever you sneeze.
If You Are Sick, Stay Home Except to Get Medical Care
Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home without medical attention. Only leave your house if you require medical care. Stay in touch with your doctor and avoid public areas.
During these troubling times, a good healthcare plan brings peace of mind. InsureOne remains in service and ready to help you with any of your insurance needs. Start your free health insurance quote online or give us a call today.