Keep Safe During COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic has been a worldwide, unprecedented challenge. The credible information on this virus has, at times, been difficult to discern. When the virus was first discovered, it seemed the recommendations changed daily. The truth is, they did. As scientists gained better information, they presented it to the public. It was, however, overwhelming for some people. The one thing that we have known from the beginning is that this deadly virus has a higher mortality rate for the elderly and immunocompromised.

Isn’t It Just Like the Flu?

While COVID-19 shares some symptoms with the flu, this is an entirely different virus. Even influenza (the flu) changes over time. However, it is essential to learn what the symptoms are and how to treat them.

Coronavirus – SYMPTOMS

While these symptoms may not seem so bad at first, many of them can be life-threatening for anyone, especially immunocompromised and elderly patients. Fever, fatigue, and dry cough are the primary symptoms of this condition. While those may all be present, this does not necessarily mean that you have COVID-19. You must be tested for COVID-19 by a trained medical professional to receive a definitive diagnosis.

Other symptoms may also be present. These are much rarer, but they can also potentially cause more problems. The least problematic symptoms are nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, loss of taste or smell, chills, and nausea. The most problematic effects are shortness of breath, muscle and joint pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. These are sometimes indicative of a more serious problem. If you are having these symptoms, you should first begin by staying at home and self-isolating for seven days. If you start to feel worse or the symptoms last longer than seven days, you may use the 111 services, but do not call unless you cannot get help online.

Prevention

Prevention, in this case, is better than the treatment if you get infected. Those with underlying health complications, and people over 60 are more likely to experience more severe symptoms. Following the steps below can help you prevent a problem.

• Wash your hands—Washing your hands regularly will help prevent germs from spreading.
  - This includes when going to the restroom and eating, as always, but you cannot forget when you encounter someone in public, pay for purchases, or after simply being in a public space.

• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. If you have shared hallways, doors, or public spaces, you will want to wipe down knobs and surfaces that you frequently touch if you can. In your home, wipe any surfaces visitors may touch.
  - Light switches, doorknobs, desks, staplers, or other “community property” needs to be disinfected regularly.
• Discard disposable waste in receptacles as soon as you finish with it.
  - If someone in your home has COVID-19, keep their waste in separate containers to avoid cross-contamination.
• Don’t touch your face or eyes.
• Wear PPE, such as masks or gloves.
  - Aprons, goggles, gloves, and masks may be recommended for different tasks.
• Social Distance—stay two metres away from others when possible. Avoid crowds unless absolutely necessary.
• Take Care of Yourself.
  - Be sure to hydrate, exercise, eat properly and rest when appropriate.

Final Thoughts

You may not be able to avoid getting exposed to COVID-19, no matter how hard you try. However, following the above recommendations and having carers follow them will minimize your exposure risk. If you find that you have coronavirus, be sure to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and follow all of your doctor’s orders.

Prema Care is known to be one of the most cost-effective Introductory Agencies that those seeking live-in care arrangements can access.