Basic measures to protect against coronavirus

The World Health Organization notes that in most cases (about 80%) the disease is characterized by a mild course and ends in recovery. But there are also complications. How to protect your health and the health of others? WHO recommends following these simple guidelines..

Regularly wash your hands

Wash your hands regularly with soap or wash them with an alcohol-based product (if they are not very dirty). If a virus is present on the surface of the hands, this will kill it. It is also worth regularly disinfecting your gadgets and office equipment.

Try to avoid crowded places.

Do not visit crowded places unnecessarily. If possible, choose remote payment methods and registration services.

Keep your distance in public and common places

Stay at least 1 meter away from people, especially if they have a cough, runny nose, or fever. Coughing or sneezing, a person with a respiratory infection spreads the smallest drops containing the virus around him. If you are too close to such a person, you can get the virus by inhaling air.

If possible, do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth

Why is this needed? Hands touch many surfaces on which the virus may be present. Touching the hands containing the infection to the eyes, nose, or mouth can transfer the virus from the skin of the hands to the body.

Follow Respiratory Hygiene Rules

When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or bend of your elbow; immediately throw the napkin into the garbage container with a lid and treat your hands with an alcohol-containing antiseptic or wash them with soap and water. If you cover your nose and mouth with your hand when coughing or sneezing, germs can fall on your hands, and then on objects or people you touch.

Is it needed to refrain from shaking hands and hugs?

Yes. Viruses that cause respiratory infections can be transmitted by shaking hands and touching the eyes, nose and mouth. In greeting, wave your hand, nod or bow.

Is it necessary to wear a mask?

The WHO recommends wearing a mask only if you have Covid 19 symptoms (especially a cough) or if you care for someone who might be sick. Disposable masks cannot be reused. The most effective measures to protect one's own health and the health of others are described above.

Is wearing rubber gloves effective in public places?

Not. You are more protected from the virus when you do not use rubber gloves, but wash your hands. The causative agent of coronavirus infection can contaminate gloves. Touching the face after this will transfer the virus to the face and expose yourself to the risk of infection.

If you have a fever, a cough, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

These symptoms require immediate medical attention, as they can be caused by a respiratory infection or other serious illness. Symptoms of respiratory damage in combination with fever can have a variety of causes, among which may be Covid-19.

If you feel unwell, stay home until you recover, even if you have mild symptoms of the disease, such as a headache or a runny nose. By refraining from contact with others and not visiting medical institutions, you help these institutions to work more efficiently and protect yourself and others from possible infection with Covid-19 or other viral infections.

Coronavirus-related hotline: 1003. You can also call the Agency for Sanitary and Epidemiological Well-being: 71–276–49–66.

Take care of your loved ones

Check regularly about the health conditions of loved ones. Encourage them to engage in enjoyable activities. Help older relatives buy food and pay bills. Give your kids calm and right advice.

If you are 60 years old or older, and if you have somatic illnesses (such as arterial hypertension, heart, lung, cancer, or diabetes). Avoid crowded places and places where you can meet sick people.

Do antibiotics help?

Not. Antibiotics do not act on viruses; they are active only against bacterial infections. Covid 19 is a viral disease, so antibiotics are ineffective. Do not use antibiotics to prevent or treat COVID 19. Their use is allowed only as directed by a doctor for the treatment of bacterial infections.

For more information, see the special section on the Covid-19 coronavirus on the WHO website.