What are the best measures to avoid getting infected with COVID-19
The pandemic of COVID-19 has changed the way in which society works. Not only has it affected businesses by reducing and limiting the number of people who are allowed to be at the same location to avoid the spread of the virus but scientist and political leaders request their citizens to remain home and avoid contact with everyone. While it might be difficult to remain home forever taking into consideration the many life situations we face such as shopping, social contact, work, etc… here are some tips for you to survive and remain safe during this pandemic.
Buy the essentials
Social distancing can be a challenging thing to do when shopping or dining. It is inevitable having to leave isolation in order to restock your household with the essential goods. But did you know there is a way you can strategically plan your purchases in order to decrease the time you spend at the store? A good strategy to do this is by buying some of the following items.
- Non-perishable food items (canned meats, veggies, fruits, etc.)
- Frozen foods (individual meals, veggies, family-sized dinner entrees, etc.)
- Toiletries (toilet paper, toothpaste, antibacterial soap, etc.)
- Cleaning supplies (disinfectant spray/wipes, all-purpose cleaners, bleach, vinegar, etc.)
Mythbusters
Image provided by the World Health Organization licensed under the creative commons attribution (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO) which allows users to freely copy, reproduce, reprint, distribute, translate and adapt the work for non-commercial purposes.
Having essential items will ensure you are stocked and therefore decrease the time in between each grocery shopping day. However, there is a lot of misinformation about this virus and the proper safety protocols. Below is a list of some debunked myths provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). To read the full list click here.
Wearing masks while exercising is not recommended
While a large number of gym locations are enforcing the rule of using face masks during the workout, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that not only is it unsafe to do so due to the mask reducing the ability to breathe and build extra bacteria from sweat. Instead, the WHO recommends maintaining social distancing while working out.
The virus spreads through your shoes
Another misconception people are having is that COVID-19 spreads through your shoes. However, according to WHO the likelihood of it happening is very low.
CO2 intoxication due to the use of face masks
A main safety protocol to follow is to wear face masks. Not only does it prevents you from inhaling the virus particles but it prevents the face mask user to prevent spreading virus particles in the air. According to WHO it is false that the use of face masks can cause CO2 intoxication or oxygen deficiency.
For more information regarding COVID-19 safety protocols, you can read the BC Centre for Decease Control safety plan