PERSONAL SAFETY IN A PANDEMIC A PHYSICIAN’S TAKE

THE GLEANER’S Good Medicine had a chat with president of the Association of General Practitioners of Jamaica, Dr Donald Gordon, who elaborated on personal health and safety as the world grapples with the coronavirus pandemic. According to Gordon, the recent increase in the number of COVID19 cases in Jamaica is driven by factors such as the refusal of the general population to adhere to recommendations. These recommendations include the wearing of masks in public and limiting interactions among the population at certain social events such as parties, funeral and other venues of socialisation. He says the exposure of vulnerable members of the society to the virus, such as the elderly and persons with diminished immunity, also fuels the spread, as well as the refusal of persons to stay home and self-quarantine when ill because of selfishness or financial pressures.

Gordon believes the spread is also compounded by carriers of the virus who are asymptomatic and mixing with the general population.

WHAT ROLES WE PLAY IN REDUCING THE SPREAD

On the doctor’s advice, we must take the message of the virus seriously, especially as it relates to the wearing of masks, social distancing, practising frequent handwashing and sanitising. We should avoid any unnecessary association in crowded venues and avoid the visiting of other households, especially where there are vulnerable members. We must also self-quarantine when ill.

IMPORTANT BACKTO-SCHOOL TIPS

• Students should have more than one mask present in their possession

• Students should carry their lunch and water to avoid gathering at canteens and water coolers

• Parents should have a thermometer at home to monitor body temperature twice daily, before and after school

• Students should have personal supply of hand sanitisers in bag and sanitary tissues to use in the event of a cough.