At present, the world is still horrified by the presence of coronavirus. Defined as a pandemic by WHO, the virus has spread to almost all parts of the world, with more than 700,000 cases. In the previous article, it was stated that the symptoms of the infection caused by the virus looked like the symptoms of a common cold. For this reason, many patients misjudge their illness and become carriers for those around them.

As quoted from Harvard Health Publishing - Harvard Medical School page, here are some things you can do to protect yourself from COVID-19,

• Avoid direct contact with people who are sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth before washing your hands
• Isolate yourself when you are sick
• Use a mask or tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Use disinfectants to clean surfaces of objects that are frequently touched (door handles, house doors, or banisters)
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds both before and after doing activities.
• If you can’t wash your hands, you can use a hand sanitizer with an alcohol content of at least 60 percent to wash your hands.

To help boost the immune system, you must adopt a healthy diet and lifestyle. Diligent exercise, not smoking, and getting enough sleep can help boost your immune system. In addition, the consumption of multivitamin supplements is also recommended to meet the body's nutritional needs.

In Indonesia, ‘social distancing’ is recommended for those who are still active outdoors. This method may help to minimise the risk of coronavirus transmission. It is recommended that you keep a distance from others, at least 1.5 meters, to avoid the transmission.

Until now, there is no vaccine available for coronavirus. Researchers are still conducting experiments, both laboratory-scale and direct testing in humans. At least, it takes one year or more to find out the effectiveness of the vaccine. Therefore, protect yourself by taking precautions mentioned above.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay

Source(s):

• Harvard Health Publishing - Harvard Medical School - Coronavirus Resource Center (2020). https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/coronavirus-resource-center, 30 March 2020.