26/03/2020
The novel coronavirus has spread to over 425+ countries and claimed over 8,000 lives. In India alone, 180 confirmed cases and 9 deaths have been reported as of March 25.
According to health officials, practicing social distancing and washing hands for 20 seconds in frequent intervals are the most effective ways to control the spread of this new virus.
However, the outbreak has caused widespread fear among people. As a result, they are doing some ridiculous things like stocking up on masks and sanitizers. Many people are falling for every other thing they see on the internet or WhatsApp forwards.
We tell you 9 things you must not do in this fight against the novel coronavirus.
1. Don't stock up on sanitizers
Having a sanitizer to deal with this global outbreak is imperative and there is no denying that. However, this doesn't mean you will buy every single bottle available and stock it at your home. In these difficult times, you must be considerate about others too. So many people would be devoid of this essential item if you stock sanitizers in a large quantity at your place. Well, remember the story of that man who bought 17,000 bottles of sanitizers? He had to donate them all.
2. Don't hoard groceries
Some baseless rumors say our country will soon be under lock-down. Owing to the fear of a lock-down, people have started hoarding groceries and daily essentials for the next 6 (or more) months. This is definitely not the way to fight the novel coronavirus spread.
3. Don't wear masks if you are not unwell
Masks. This is another thing that everyone has been stocking up on. So many cities across the world have run out of masks because of the same reason. However, you must know that these masks should only be worn by people who are not well and the ones who are taking care of Covid-19 patients. So, act wisely and do not pile on masks if you are not unwell. Leave them for the healthcare professionals and others who may actually need them.
4. Don't fall for WhatsApp forwards
Right from lock-down hoaxes to home remedies that treat Covid-19, WhatsApp University is endlessly churning out corona virus-related stuff. While you cannot stop people from sending you such messages, you can definitely choose to not believe in them.
5. Don't be lured to plan a trip
Schools are shut and so are colleges. Several offices have also provided paid leaves or allowed people to work from home. This may appear to be a suitable time to plan a trip with your family but it is definitely not. Stay at home, practice social distancing and avoid any sort of unnecessary travel. No malls, no parks, no visits to the restaurant.
6. Don't panic, and don't spread panic
Panicking is the last thing you are expected to do in the fight against the novel coronavirus. Just ensure that you are taking preventive measures.
Moreover, focus on the positive side of this outbreak. You can now spend more time with family while you're in home-quarantine, steal moments to indulge in your hobby or read that book you have been trying to finish for quite a while. Meditate, practice yoga at home and don't stay hooked to the news channels 24*7.
7. Don't let the coronavirus scare take a toll on your mental health
The coronavirus fear is undeniably real but don't let it a toll on your mental health. Don't let it become a cause of anxiety. Instead, just practice social distancing and wash your hands at regular intervals, and urge your loved ones to do the same. That is all you need to do to keep the virus away at the moment.
8. Don't shame people
The symptoms of Covid-19 are quite common and include dry cough, cold and fever. If you see a person coughing or sneezing, don't blatantly shame them that they might have coronavirus. Don't start behaving differently with them. Just politely ask them to get themselves checked and suggest them to stay at home until they recover. Don't propagate the stigma around coronavirus.
9. Don't hide symptoms
The same goes for you. If you develop fever, cold, cough or have difficulty breathing, visit a doctor and declare it. Don't hide your symptoms and put several other lives to risk.
