The coronavirus is running rampant throughout the entire world, and panic has started to set in. The lack of testing concerns many Americans. Restrictions have been put into place to help deter the coronavirus from spreading further. However, it is well known that the situation will get worse before it gets better.
What Are the Restrictions?
Officials first stated that people could not gather in groups larger than 50, however, that has since been changed. They are now saying to refrain from gatherings of more than 10 people, and when possible, communicate via texts, calls, social media, and Facetime/Skype. Of course, the usual restrictions apply as well, frequently wash hands (20 seconds and make sure to scrub fingertips), use sanitizer (at least 60 percent alcohol-based) in between washing; refrain from touching the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Are There Other Recommendations?
Yes, officials have now stated that if one is wearing rings, they should remove them before washing their hands. Studies have shown that germs can develop under rings over time. If at all possible, try not to wear any rings until this pandemic has subsided. It is not fully understood whether or not the germs can be transmitted, so it is better to be safe than sorry. Doctors practice this method when they perform surgery, due to the fact that it lowers the risk of spreading diseases.
How Long Can the Virus Last on Surfaces?
Recent studies show that the coronavirus can live up to four hours on copper, 24 hours on cardboard, and can be detected 2-3 days after exposure to plastic and stainless steel. It is not clear how long the coronavirus can live on soft surfaces (i.e. clothes), therefore, doctors recommend removing shoes and changing into clean clothes when one leaves the house. The belief is that if one does this, it should prevent outside germs from entering the home.
What Should Be Done to Keep Homes Clean?
Basic cleaning tips –
Disinfect doorknobs and let them dry;
Use wipes to clean light switches;
Use cloth laundry bags so they can be washed as well;
For those who only have a laundry basket, make sure to clean the liner and the container;
Use high heat when doing laundry. This does not mean that one has to use hot water, however, using the high heat setting on the dryer kills germs;
Every surface in the kitchen needs to be cleaned and sanitized;
Including blenders, toasters, countertops, and any other areas that get high traffic;
Have specific cups, dishes, utensils, bedding, and towels separate for the sick is recommended;
After said items are used by the infected, they need to be washed thoroughly.
What Are the Symptoms?
Some of the symptoms of coronavirus:
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing;
Chest pressure or persistent pain;
The inability to get up;
Developing confusion;
Bluish lips or face.
If these symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately.
What to Do If One Catches the Coronavirus?
The number one thing to do is stay home. People who have contracted a mild version of the coronavirus can recover at home, and only leave the house to receive medical care. Keep in touch with the doctor, and call before heading to the office. However, if one begins to feel worse immediately head to the emergency room. Also, avoid using public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing vehicles until the pandemic is under control.
If being quarantined in the home, designate a room for those who are infected with the coronavirus. If at all possible use a different bathroom than others in the home. Keep contact with pets and animals to a minimum or have someone else care for them. There have been no reports of the coronavirus being transmitted to animals at this time.
What to Do If One Chooses Not to Get Tested?
If a person chooses to not have the test to determine if they are still infected, there are three things that need to happen before one can stop their quarantine:
Fever has to be gone for 72 hours, this means a person has to go three full days without a fever that has been reduced by medicine;
Coughing and shortness of breath need to improve;
At least seven days have passed since the symptoms first appeared.
If one chooses to be tested to see if they are still contagious they must also follow the above guidelines to leave the house. Then, one must have had two negative test results 24 hours apart. Of course one needs to consult with a doctor and/or local and state health departments to determine if it is safe for them to return to normal life.
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
CDC: Steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick
Vox: 11 things everyone should know about getting the novel coronavirus
USA Today: With constant hand-washing amid the coronavirus outbreak, should you stop wearing your wedding ring?
Image Courtesy of Tamisu’s Pixabay Page – Creative Commons License