COVID19 is a new disease caused by a newly identified coronavirus that likely jumped from infecting only animal species to infecting humans, that, in turn, developed person-to-person transmission that results in respiratory problems. It is highly advised to stay at home as much as possible to maintain social distancing. Some countries are on lockdown like Russia, at least 16 cities from China, South Africa, and even Philippines. But you’ll likely need to go a grocery store or pharmacy for your daily needs. Here are some ways to make sure that you don’t bring the virus back home with you.
- Make a game plan
Designate one person to be your errand-runner to limit your outside exposure. It is highly encourage to assign the person who has high immune system since your risk of complications is much lower. You may also set up a disinfecting station by simply putting an alcohol on every door or floor.
- When you’re out
Maintain social distancing by approximately 6 feet or 2 meters from others. Always wipe handles on carts or baskets while shopping or if possible do not us your hand directly. Gloves or a mask is advisable for those who are sick so you may not have it, just wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
- When you get back
Keep in mind that you must wash your hands with water and soap for 20 seconds (you may sing a birthday song twice) as soon as you get home. Disinfect boxes or plastics and packaged foods. Make sure to thoroughly wash products before putting it in your kitchen.
- Disinfect
Disinfect everything you touch like the doorknobs, light switches, keys, phone, keyboards, remotes, etc. According to World Health Organization Philippines, if a surface is dirty, first wipe it down with regular household soap or detergent and rinse with water. Then use a regular household disinfectant like bleach—its active ingredient (sodium hypochlorite) kills bacteria, fungi and viruses. Always protect your hands when using bleach (e.g. wear rubber gloves). Dilute bleach with water according to directions on the package.
- Delivery
Ask workers to drop deliveries off on your doorstep or an area of your complex. But if they really need you to come to the door (e.g. for signature or payment/change), keep six feet of distance. If possible, pay and tip online (via credit cards, Gcash, etc). After you pick up deliveries or mail, wash your hands.
- Laundry
In the midst of the COVID19, washing your clothes properly could be vital to your family’s health. In clening your clothes effectively, you should keep contaminated laundry separate. Researchers explained that the combination of detergent, warm water, and physical agitation in the rinse and spin cycles are the ones that removes, inactivates, and washes away viral microbes. Once the washing is done, using a dryer may be better than hanging the clothes to dry because the eat may also help inactivate any viral microbes. It’s also important to disinfect handles and other surfaces before you touch the machines and wash your hands after.
- If someone in your home gets sick
First, consult your doctor. Isolate them in another room and ask them to use a separate restroom. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and avoid sharing items with them. Ask them to wear a face mask.
- Supplies you’ll need
During these times, people tend to panic buying and hoard supplies but you must keep in mind that doing those won’t save you from this pandemic. You must buy enough things only for your family. The basic needs are the disinfectants (you may also make your own bleach solution), laundry detergent, trash bags, prescription medicines, canned foods, fruits, veggies, dry goods, and frozen foods.
Practical SISpreneur 