The number of Covid-19 cases reported in 2021 have been worryingly high. Despite movement control still being in place, we are still four digits away from being a Covid-19-free nation. Now, have you wondered what more could you do to help flatten the curve?
The SOPs (wash your hands, wear a mask and practice social distancing) are no stranger to us anymore. We bring along our mask to just about anywhere we go. Oftentimes, we place too much focus on what should be done but not what should not be done. In fact, your efforts of abiding by the SOPs will most probably go to waste if you make the following mistakes still.
Assuming everything else is acceptable
Your friends can reassure us that they have not been to anywhere or come in contact with anyone at risk. Though, how can you be so sure? Face-to-face interactions are bound to bear the risk of transmitting the virus among the circle. As a matter of fact, many fail to disclose where they have been to. So, assuming that a meet up with a friend or having a family gathering is safe could put not just yourself but your entire family at risk of contracting Covid-19.
Inaccurate disposal of mask
Face masks have been part of our daily necessity, or what some might see as a fashion piece now. Ever since the pandemic hit, millions of used face masks and gloves were turned into infectious waste. Every so often, we can see these materials lying on the ground or flowing in the drain. What happens if the previous owner of the mask was infected?
Failure to understand virus transmission
The usage of face masks is pretty much self-explanatory. To be exact, it blocks droplets from our nose and mouth to prevent exposure to the air while reducing transmission of virus to the other parties. As long as one does not put on a mask the right way or wash your hands after a sneeze or cough, there is a chance of spreading the virus.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming family and friends are safe
- Having frequent small gatherings
- Keeping quiet about contact history
- Resuming normal life after a single negative test
- Do not quarantine after close contact with someone tested positive
Four other things you should do to prevent the spread of Covid-19
#1 Touch only what you are purchasing
Touching and feeling is a normal procedure of how we usually determine the ripeness and freshness of fresh produce. However, an infected person might rub their nose, catch a sneeze or cough with their hands and proceed to grab the item. People who lay their hands on the same item and touch their eyes, nose and mouth can possibly get infected with the virus. This is why a strong emphasis was laid on proper sanitation and good hygiene.
#2 Think twice before heading out
Whether you are making a trip to the grocery or planning a visit to a friend or family, ask yourself if that is necessary. You might be longing to see them even for the slightest bit of second but keep in mind that you are still putting both the health of yours and your loved ones at risk. Ultimately, you should weigh between the risk and the benefit of your actions as a responsible member of the society.
#3 Discard your materials properly
The right way of discarding contaminated face masks and gloves is by throwing them into a waste bin instead of reusing it or letting it wander to wherever the wind takes it. These materials might hold infectious viruses and also pose a hazardous threat to the environment. What’s more disheartening is that it takes approximately 450 years to decompose a face mask.
#4 Stop the discrimination
Reports have shown that some Covid-19 patients have revealed to be hiding their symptoms and condition. This is because stigma has happened to people who were diagnosed with Covid-19 and also to those who have recovered from the infection. While we are busy ‘protecting’ ourselves, these individuals are suffering from the virus and the social rejection. Consequently, they are more likely to fall into the depression hole.
Sources: India Today, Irish Times
