Stay Covid-19 free this festive season
WHO said residents should avoid the 3 Cs: closed spaces, crowded spaces, and close contact spaces.
With the New Year approaching, here’s how to stay Covid-19 free this festive season.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) said people should try and celebrate with as few others as possible. WHO has also provided six protective measures for residents around the world, and why these methods work:
Get vaccinated as soon as you can
WHO says approved Covid-19 vaccines provide a high degree of protection against serious illness or death. However, vaccines do not fully prevent transmission of the virus.
“WHO believes that everyone everywhere should have access as quickly as possible to safe and effective Covid-19 vaccines…”
Those at most risk – frontline health workers, those with underlying medical conditions, over-60s, and pregnant women – should prioritise being vaccinated.
Wear a properly fitted face mask
WHO advised ‘masking up’ when physical distancing is not possible and ventilation is poor (especially indoors).
Covid-19 is spread when droplets containing the virus are inhaled or directly contact the eyes, nose, or mouth. A mask can help prevent infection from another person.
WHO said to make masks as effective as possible, clean your hands any time you handle the mask, ensure your nose, mouth, and chin are covered, and store the mask in a clean bag when not in use. Fabric masks should be washed daily and disposable masks must be discarded after use.
Keep a 1-metre distance from everyone else
Covid-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This virus can be transmitted by an infected person through coughing, sneezing, speaking, breathing, or singing.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Use a tissue to prevent spreading droplets, or your bent elbow in a pinch. Remember to dispose of the used tissue immediately and wash your hands.
“By following good respiratory hygiene, you protect yourself and those around you from Covid-19. Good respiratory hygiene also protects you from other viruses that cause colds and flu.”
Clean your hands regularly with soap and water, or sanitiser
You may pick up a virus by touching a contaminated surface, then touching your face. Cleaning your hands eliminates these contact germs. WHO also said surfaces must be frequently cleaned and disinfected, especially door handles, taps, and phone screens.
Go outside and open the windows
Covid-19 is more transmissible in crowded and poorly ventilated places, and where people spend longer time together. This includes fitness classes, restaurants, bars, offices, and places of worship.
WHO said residents should avoid the 3 Cs: closed spaces, crowded spaces, and close contact spaces. Rather meet people outside and if not possible, open the windows to encourage air flow.
“If you have [any of the listed] symptoms, stay home and call your healthcare provider or Covid-19 hotline for instructions and find out when and where to get a test, whether you should isolate, and how to monitor your health.”
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