The golden rules of COVID-19 defense
The times before the COVID-19 pandemic may seem such a long time ago. But it has only been more than a year since the dreaded disease first came into public knowledge. Unfortunately, the future remains encapsulated in the new normal, as new variants continue to spread rapidly around the world. Thankfully, the steps to protect ourselves from COVID-19 remain the same.
To help us remember the ways we can keep up our defense, the Department of Health has been promoting its “BIDA” solution campaign since late last year. Let’s take a refresher on this and learn new ways we can be at our best guard from the disease.
B STANDS FOR “BAWAL ANG WALANG MASK”
While this might seem to be the most frequently stated reminder of 2020, wearing a face mask remains your best defense against the COVID-19 virus. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises wearing a well-fitted one especially if you are unvaccinated.
This means that the mask should cover your nose and mouth completely. A KN95 mask is ideal, but more often than not, this kind of protection is reserved for medical personnel. You can wear disposable and cloth masks instead in multiple layers. The DOH recommends wearing a disposable mask underneath the cloth one, with the edges of the underlying layer pushing out against your face.
Overseas, travelers are no longer required to wear a mask in outdoor settings. In our country, however, no such allowance has been permitted yet especially with the rise of new cases in recent weeks. Continue to keep your face masks on especially in indoor and crowded areas. Children are also encouraged to wear masks, except those younger than two years of age. Protect infants instead with nursing cover-ups while ensuring good breathing space.
I STANDS FOR “I-SANITIZE ANG MGA KAMAY”
Hand hygiene is the next best step you can take to pro tect you and your loved ones from disease. The CDC recommends washing our hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, however, cleaning up with hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol is an acceptable alternative.
Washing your hands is necessary every time you would come into contact with others, but they are also important in other situations. Sanitize if you’re cooking, if you’ve just come from the bathroom or if you’ve accessed frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, light switches, elevator buttons and the like. Whether you’re at home or in public, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth especially if you have yet to wash your hands.
As an additional measure, clean and disinfect your home on a daily basis. In particular, pay close attention to frequently touched surfaces and items coming from outside your home. Use household disinfectant products which have been proven to kill bacteria and viruses.
D FOR “DUMISTANSYA NG ISANG METRO”
Social distancing remains a necessity, but it may be better to err on the side of caution. CDC recommends a distance of six feet (1.8 meters) to prevent inhaling minute infected particles in the air. While many of us miss hanging out with friends and family, video calls remain the safer method of celebrating important milestones comto face-to-face activities. If you do have to meet up with people, opt for outdoor encounters and practice physical distancing at all times.
A STANDS FOR “ALAMIN ANG TOTOONG IMPORMASYON”
Due to the continuous fear over catching the virus, many of us have gone far and beyond in protecting our families from the disease. Extreme intake of Vitamin C pills, consumption of raw garlic and even the use of cow’s urine, however, have all been debunked as false cures.
Instead, listen to reliable news sources. Keep up-to-date as well with government announcements and follow new directives. Always double check new facts and consult a doctor in any case of doubt.
GET VACCINATED!
While this last reminder may not be on the DOH’s original campaign, it is perhaps the most important one we can do nowadays to protect ourselves from COVID-19. All the brands being offered have gone through rigorous standards both here and abroad. Though being fully vaccinated does not guarantee that you won’t get the virus, it increases your chances of surviving the disease. It also helps curb the spread of the virus to the vulnerable, in particular those with compromised immunities.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by following the BIDA steps and getting yourself vaccinated. While no one can predict the end of this pandemic nightmare, doing your part will definitely help move the world toward it.