The first half of 2020 has effectively been taken over by the COVID-19 crisis, which went from being a viral outbreak in one part of the world to becoming a pandemic that has shut down entire cities.
What makes this virus as scary and as deadly as it is, is its highly infectious nature, constant mutation, and ability to affect practically anyone regardless of age, gender, or other socio-economic factors. It’s also quite inconspicuous, affecting millions of people across the globe and killing thousands, yet it remains quite unpredictable.
Is Prevention Better Than Cure?
What’s challenging is that nobody quite knows they’re a carrier, or that they’re sick, until symptoms emerge. The incubation period is 8-12 days, sometimes less, sometimes more, and even then, people can be asymptomatic, which means they could be carriers without symptoms.
It’s incredibly dangerous territory we’re in, which is why it’s crucial to take every measure possible for prevention.
Stay at home, maintain social distance, don’t come within 6 ft. of someone you know, practice regular handwashing and cleaning and monitor changes and symptoms in your health and hope the best.
However, even a brief encounter or slight exposure can affect you.
What to do if you’re ill?
If you feel like you’ve developed symptoms of COVID-19, which are typically flu-like but can be more intense, such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle ache
There are certain things that must be done immediately, according to the CDC, both for your safety and for that of your family.
1. Identify If You’re High Risk
Are you over the age of 55? Do you have an underlying health condition such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or are you immunocompromised?
It’s important that you know this because these factors could make the Covid-19 virus fatally dangerous for you. While younger, healthier individuals might experience mild to moderate flu-like symptoms, or in some cases, more severe, their chances of recovery are higher.
2. Self-Isolate And Quarantine If You’re Not
This is a crucial step in limiting the transmission of the virus from you to your family and to people outside. Restrict your movement to the home or to a particular room if you share your home with other individuals, especially elderly relatives or young children and sick family members. Separate your utensils and don’t interact without a mask, maintain a distance of at least 6 ft. at all times and be sure to wash and disinfect your hands and belongings.
3. Monitor For Changes And Progress
This could mean that your health improves and you’re getting better—or it could mean that your health is deteriorating and you’re unable to breathe, feeling intense pressure and falling sicker than before. If the latter happens, you need to consult a medical professional or visit the hospital because you might require a ventilator to breathe.
4. Hydrate And Nourish Your Body
Your body requires nourishment and foods that will help fight the virus, including vitamin C, water, and other foods that replenish you. It might be difficult to eat, but it’s important to get whatever you can in.
We’re all in this together and must play our part to flatten the curve. If you’re the caretaker for someone who’s sick, you should also be self-isolating to limit the spread.
Disclaimer: Bixahuman’s products are not intended for diagnosing, treating, curing, or preventing any disease. Any information discussed in this blog is not a replacement for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or physician for medical advice.