Protect Yourself Against COVID-19

More than a year has passed since first news of a novel coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, China. Since then, reported cases went from thousands to millions worldwide. In the Philippines, cases have been steadily rising again with new COVID-19 variants detected in the country. The threat of catching or transmitting sickness remains as a top concern for most, so don’t forget these COVID-19 safety tips to keep yourself protected. 

The virus shows frequent mutation and it is unsafe to fall into complacency at this time. Keep you and your family protected against the virus by remembering these three points. 

Prevent Transmission

COVID-19 is spread through the inhalation of the respiratory droplets of an infected person, which can take place within close proximity and/or prolonged exposure to said patient. 

What can you do to prevent catching or spreading the virus? Perform these public health standards:

• Perform hand washing regularly and thoroughly. It is advised to wash hands with soap and water for at least 40 to 60 seconds frequent times a day. Use a 70% alcohol-based solution or hand rub if soap and water are not available, but make sure to wash with soap and water if hands are visibly soiled.
• Wear a standard mask properly. The CDC recommends wearing a KN95 mask, or doubling up protective layers with a disposable mask underneath and a cloth mask on top. Mask guidelines from the national and local governments may vary, but the type of mask you use is only as good as how you use it correctly. Make sure that the fit is snug to your face, keeping your nose, mouth, and chin covered at all times. 
• Practice physical distancing. Coming face-to-face with other people is unavoidable, but be mindful to keep a safe distance of at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from others as much as possible. If the minimum distance cannot be met, avoid talking and doing social gestures like hugging, shaking hands, etc.
• Avoid crowded and poor-ventilated places. Crowded places also makes it easier for viruses to spread given the number of close interactions happening at once, and this worsens when the area is not well-ventilated because air circulates within an enclosed space. Plan your trips ahead and avoid areas with large crowds to minimize the chances of you catching a virus.

Care for Your Body

The best kind of defense is keeping your health and body in tip-top shape—inside and out. Consider these steps to help you be in the pink of health.

• Eat nutrient-rich food. Staying at home most of the time gives you more control over what you eat. Fill your diet with nutrient-rich food like vegetables, fruits, and healthy proteins. 
• Stay active. Staying indoors does not necessarily mean you give in to inactivity. Set some time during the week to exercise. Skipping rope, jogging in place, and even high-intensity interval training workouts are good places to start. 
• Drink fluids. Keep hydrated by drinking sufficient glasses of water a day. This ensures your body temperature is regulated, and helps your organs function as they should. 
• Take a mental break. Your mind and spirit are just as essential parts of your overall well-being. Take time during the day channel your energy into thoughts and activities that help you relax. 
• Boost immunity. Take multivitamins and supplements that help you meet your daily health needs especially if you have nutrient deficiencies. 
• Consult your doctor. Seek advice and get proper assessment if you start to experience unusual or persistent symptoms.

Read: Essential Vitamins and Supplements for a Strong Immune System

Consult your Doctor About Vaccination
Experts recommend getting vaccinated against COVID-19 that may help prevent serious disease, hospitalization, and even death. It may also protect people around you, especially those most vulnerable for serious disease if they do get infected. Getting a shot in the arm is one of the simplest ways to protect the people around you, because you are less likely to infect someone else if you prevent infection yourself. 

Vaccines trigger our bodies to produce antibodies against certain types of diseases. Experts and leading researchers around the globe worked together to develop vaccines against COVID-19, and there are already many variants available. By February 2021, millions of vaccines have been rolled out in several countries. Reach out to a healthcare professional to have a thorough assessment of your health status and to understand which vaccine options are available and suitable for you. 

Read: 5 Essential Vaccines for Adults

The combination of getting vaccinated and following the minimum public health standards is the best way we can protect ourselves and others from COVID-19. Do your part to protect yourself and your community by following minimum public health standards, caring for your body, and getting vaccinated when possible. 

General disclaimer 
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.

Sources:

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html 
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/preventing-the-spread-of-the-coronavirus
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html
• https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-(covid-19)-vaccines
• https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/ 
• https://elemental.medium.com/what-science-says-about-vitamins-and-supplements-for-covid-19-b5feaedbb9f1