What can you do about the Coronavirus

If you have turned on your TV or surfed the web in the last few weeks, there only seems to be one topic: Coronavirus or COVID-19.

Whether you see it as the next threat to human kind or think it’s all a hype, it’s up to you. We just think there are other topics in the world, which don’t get as much as attention as the Coronavirus does and they impact far more. Did you know that there are 821 million people – more than 1 in 9 of the world population – who do not get enough to eat? You can calculate how many die of starvation as I type this post!

What are some ways you can reduce your risk of being infected with Coronavirus?

1. Reduce the exposure to the outside world

We hear of Wuhan or parts of Northern Italy being put under mandatory quarantine. This has been deemed effective to control the spread of the virus. In Wuhan, we’ve seen how the air pollution has decreased (amazing, don’t you think?!).

Organisations are encouraging working from home and reducing or even disallowing international travel. Here, we’ll also have some federal government institutions work from home. Could you do your work from home?

You may also avoid going to big crowds, think of concerts and exhibitions. Here, a number of large events have been cancelled as a pre-caution already.

2. Follow the coughing and sneezing etiquette – not just during the Coronavirus phase

It doesn’t seize to amaze me how many people mistake their hands for a handkerchief when sneezing. Using a paper tissue, please, and throw it away afterwards. Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Please don’t use your hands.

The same when coughing. Cough into your elbow (that’s where I generally sneeze) to limit the germs flight around you.

3. Wash your hands more often

Yes, this is shocking that folks have to be told to wash their hands. After using the bathroom, before, during and after preparing food, after changing diapers or helping someone else use the toilet, after taking out the trash…

Watch this video to see how hand washing should look like.

4. Stop touching your face

Given that we touch our face about 50 times an hour (!), health experts are advising to stop that. As a virus spreads via eyes, nose and mouth, these areas should be avoided in particular.

It’s quite tough as you know yourself. The Irish Times have collected 4 practical tips to reduce this habit.

5. Stay hydrated and follow a healthier diet

This is true in so many cases. Drink more water! While it won’t prevent you from possible infection as previously circulated, being hydrated gives your body more strength to fight any virus.

Also eat products like yogurt, kombucha, cheese and probiotic supplements to protect the body from viruses. Add some healthy vegetables to your diet, giving you more energy.

6. Clean more often

Surfaces can host the virus for hours or possibly several days. It’s a very good reason to get the disinfect wipes out and clean on a regular basis.

7. Call, not visit, your doctor

If you think you may have been affected by the Coronavirus, don’t just show up at your doctor’s surgery or visit a hospital. Use your mobile doctors or tele doctors which you can access via an app. These are qualified doctors who are on stand by for any medical question (not just not) and who can give you recommendations what to do and where to go in your specific city.

These are just a few tips shared by health organisations, medical providers and insurers. They are not to be viewed as medical advise or recommendations. Please call your doctor if you have questions about a specific case.

Be well and until next time,
Agni