It’s been months since the world was introduced to COVID-19, a highly infectious flu like virus. It’s claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands and has forced humans to segregate until further notice.
I’m sorry but WTF???? Is this even real? One minute the kids were in school and I, with my newest baby at home, was waiting on a beautiful spring. Next thing I know, schools and daycare centres are closed; we’ve been mandated to stay at home and away from others. Now, hubby is risking his health everyday going into work and I got 3 children at home while I work, 1 of whom I now have to homeschool.
I know this is far from the horrible scenarios that some may be experiencing. Everyone across the globe is feeling the effects of this pandemic. People are losing their jobs. Frontline workers are at a higher risk of exposure. People are stuck in abusive homes and single parent households lack the help needed to face these hard times.
No matter what you are going through during this global crisis, know that there are people and resources out there to help.
Now, I am not a medical professional of any kind and should not be relied on as such. The World Health Organization as well as your local public health authority, such as Public Health Agency of Canada or the CDC, should be your primary source of advice, first and foremost.
Lets take a look at the list of ways to protect your health, provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
HOW TO TAKE ACTION AGAINST COVID-19
1. Physical distance
- Stay at home as much as possible unless going to work. Even then, try to arrange working from home with your employer.
- Limit how often you leave your home for groceries or for medical purposes.
- Walks and time outdoors for fresh air and exercise is ok only if you remain 6ft away from others at all times, have not been exposed to the virus and are not showing and symptoms of illness.
- Avoid non-essential gatherings and contact with vulnerable groups like the elderly or those of poor health.
2. Practice good hygiene
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Especially when using the washroom or preparing food.
- Use an alcohol based sanitizer in the absence of soap.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow.
- Dispose of all used tissues.
3. Keep clean
- Continuously disinfect commonly touched surfaces around your house and place of work.
- Examples of surfaces include: door handles, light switches, remotes, electronics, phones and toys.