In just two months the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been markedly risen from a regional crisis to a global threat. According to the live report by worldometers.info website, the confirmed cases has reached more than 200,000 worldwide and more than 8,000 deaths so far, as at the time of this article being written.
Meanwhile in Malaysia, the confirmed cases has been risen rapidly over the past week, reaching 790 confirmed cases with 2 deaths as of today, making it the worst-hit nation by the COVID-19 in Southeast Asia. To that end, the Government has decided to implement a nationwide Restriction of Movement Order from March 18 to March 31, 2020, to curb the spread of COVID-19 infections.
We have shared earlier in an article on some of the hygiene and safety precautions that can protect you from the exposure of COVID-19. In view of the situation is getting worse in our home country, what are the extra precautions you should take in order to reduce the risk of exposure and limit the spread of of COVID-19?
We’ve gathered you some additional protective measures that are recommended by World Health Organisation to protect yourself from COVID-19.
1Maintain social distancing
You’re advised to maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. When someone coughs or sneezes, they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
Furthermore, avoid physical contact when greeting including hugging or hand shaking as the respiratory viruses can be passed by these body contacts. It’s advisable to greet people with a wave, a nod or a bow instead.
2Avoid touching eyes, nose & mouth before cleaning your hands
Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. If you touch your eyes, nose or mouth before cleaning your hands, those viruses can enter your body through these areas and can make you sick. Therefore, it’s important to clean your hands regularly with soap and water before touching these areas.
3Practice respiratory hygiene when you cough or sneeze
You must cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. The used tissue must be disposed of immediately in an appropriate manner. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
4Seek medical consultation immediately if you have fever, cough & difficulty breathing
If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical consultation immediately. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.
Stay safe, stay home and take good care everyone!
Read also: How To Protect Yourself From COVID-19
