With a wide spread of the Novel Coronavirus or COVID-19, lack of isolation wards, quarantine centres and hospitals beds is a big problem.
Till the 14th of July, as many as 9 lakh people in India are infected of the Novel Coronavirus disease.
The everyday spike in cases is a matter of concern for not only the Central Government or state governments but is also creating panic amongst the citizens of India.
It is now mandatory for an individual to help in the prevention of the spread of the virus and take care of self as well as others.
In regard to this, the Central Government and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended a few set of guidelines which could help in prevention of the COVID-19 infection.
The reason to release the set of guidelines is limited testing, less number of medical staff and doctors and a huge population.
In a population of 133 crores, only 1.5 crore people have been tested for the Novel Coronavirus.
Considering the figure, it would be better if the citizens of India would know do’s and dont’s, mild symptoms, serious symptoms, doctors’ need, self isolation, immunity boost and other major factors related to the Novel Coronavirus.
High medical risk in COVID-19:
People who are hospitalized or unstable, immunocompromised individuals, people with chronic severe illness, and health care workers, including first responders and people with breathing issues are ones who would fall under medical risk.
What one should do if tested positive for COVID-19?
If an individual has been tested positive for the Novel Coronavirus with flu-like symptoms, should immediately self isolate at home.
Since COVID-19 is a viral illness, isolation may help to contain the spread of the virus.
People who are unsure about COVID-19 test and gets symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath for 2-4 weeks should assume it to be Coronavirus infection and self isolate until tested negative.
Some people could also have symptoms of body aches, and/or diarrhea.
What are the necessary things to remember while going for self-isolation?
While self isolation you need to be at home, get rest, drink plenty of healthy fluids (like water, Gatorade.)
In addition, you should wash your hands often for 20 seconds with soap and water, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and keep yourself under an hygienic environment.
High priority times to wash hands include:
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
After using the restroom, before eating or preparing food, after contact with animals or pets, before and after providing routine care for another person who needs assistance, such as a child.
To get relive from pain, one can rely on Tylenol (acetaminophen) pain relievers, fever reducers, decongestants and cough medicine to manage symptoms.
However, it is always safe to consult a chemist and doctor before taking any of medications.
Do not go to work/school/public areas, it could spread the virus.
Avoid public transportation/ride-sharing/taxis.
Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home, particularly people with special vulnerability to COVID-19 infection like senior citizens (65 or older,) those with immune compromise and health care workers and children.
Do not welcome visitors into your home.
Use a separate bathroom, if available, and separate towels, utensils and bottles.
Cover your coughs and sneezes with the inside of your elbow or with a tissue, throwing the tissue away immediately afterwards.
People previously diagnosed with COVID-19 should wear a face mask when around other people if they are still having symptoms.
Clean high-touch surfaces every day with disinfectant, such as countertops, tables, doorknobs, toilets and computer keyboards.
Please check your temperature and monitor your symptoms daily.
Seek prompt medical care if you feel like you are getting worse.
Some of the worse medical condition which might need medical attention could be:
High fever, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (feeling like you can’t get enough air, gasping, unable to speak without stopping for air, feelings of distress,) weakness, dizziness or chest pain.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call your doctor primary before seeking care or helpline numbers of your respective area.
When Do I No Longer Need to Stay Home and Self Isolate?
People who have stayed home and self-isolated can stop isolation when they are having below given conditions:
You have had no fever for at least the last 72 hours (that means three full days of no fever without the use of fever-reducing medication) and
Other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath gets better.)
At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.
The Novel Coronavirus has a wide number of cases in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Delhi, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
The everyday spike in these regions of India are not only a matter of concern for respective governments, but also a serious issue related to the citizens.
Since, COVID-19 has no proven cure, medication or vaccine, one should keep their immunity strong, follow social distancing and wear masks.
Wearing face masks could reduce 80 % to 90 % chance of being infected.
In addition, hand sanitizer and washing hands every 15 minutes is another helpful and easy way to prevent being infected by the virus.
Stay tuned for further details of the Novel Coronavirus.
