The Coronavirus or now dubbed as COVID-19 is now considered a pandemic. It means that it affected a significant sum of countries/areas worldwide.
Currently, the Philippines has already 140 confirmed COVID-19 cases (as of March 15, 2020) and on a community quarantine start March 15 to April 14, 2020. In this time of uncertainty, we all want to be protected and ensure the safety of our family.
Strictly following the measures mandated by the Department of Health (DOH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) is a must. To protect yourself from the virus, here are some ways you must practice:
Stay at Home
Since the government has put Metro Manila under community quarantine and curfew, and private companies were encouraged to have their employees work-from-home or work on a staggered schedule, it is best to stay at home if there is no important thing or errand to run. Staying at home can lessen or eliminate the chances of contracting the virus.
For people who are feeling under the weather, it is best not to go out and just rest at home until you feel better and able.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Thoroughly and frequently wash your hands with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand rub or sanitizer.
Maintain Social Distancing
If you need to go out for work, grocery errand, or any important chore that needs to be done, maintain a social distance of at least one (1) meter or three (3) feet especially from people who appear to have colds and cough.
Avoid being in a crowded place and go home immediately once you have finished your business outside.
Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow when you sneeze or cough. Please dispose all used tissues properly and immediately.
Avoid Touching Your Face Especially Your Eyes, Nose, and Mouth
Your hands can touch many surfaces and can pick up germs and viruses. Once contaminated, your hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose, and mouth; from there, it can enter your body system and make you sick.
Seek Medical Help
If you have fever, cough, and have trouble breathing, seek medical help immediately. If you have travel history and experiencing some symptoms (even mild), please do self-quarantine and reach out to DOH for further information:
8711-9503 (direct line)
8651-7800 loc. 1149 and 1150
8711-1001
8711-1002
You may also go to the nearest health facility to have yourself checked. Ensure that you practice social distancing, wear face mask, and observe proper respiratory hygiene as to not contaminate other people you may interact with.
For more information, you may visit www.doh.gov.ph or www.who.int.
Stay safe and healthy, everyone!