Prevention recommendations
In situations of risk, prevention measures are one of the most effective elements.
The recommendations accepted by all experts for this type of prevention are summarized below, also being effective in preventing the spread of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).
- Avoid direct contact with people suffering from respiratory infections.
- Wash your hands frequently: for proper handwashing, we should use plenty of soap and warm or hot water (not scalding) and rub them under the tap for more than 20 seconds, acting on all surfaces of the hand, not just on palms or back, but also between the fingers and also acting on the wrists, at least in their first 10 cm, for greater safety.
- Maintain a distance of at least one meter from other people, especially if there is suspicion or high risk of contagion.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with disposable tissues.
- Wash your hands immediately afterward, or use alcoholic antiseptic solutions. If you cannot do this, use the sleeve of your clothing and wash the garment later when possible.
Regarding the possibility of transmission through food, health authorities in affected areas recommend avoiding the consumption of meat or other foods that are not adequately cooked.
Is the use of mask useful?
The World Health Organization indicates that the use of masks could reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses.
The use of a mask allows people with symptoms of respiratory infections to cover their mouth and nose and retain to some extent the droplets and small particles expelled with coughing or sneezing, thereby “containing the spread” of the virus, at least to a significant extent.
However, scientific evidence does not show that the general use of masks in people who are not sick has any effect, as they must be effective, they can be of different types depending on the characteristics of the possible contamination.
Viruses or bacteria that are transmitted through the air can “jump” the barrier we establish by wearing a “common or generic” mask. This is because general masks do not offer impenetrable protection and because they leave our eyes exposed.
Despite this, and in the case of deciding to use masks as a prevention method, it is necessary to use them properly.
This implies that they must be appropriate (informing themselves of the existing situation at that time), replaced frequently, and not reused in general.
If we also combine their use with other hygiene measures, we will achieve more effectiveness in prevention.
What to do if you have been exposed to a potential contagion?
If you have traveled to Wuhan or have been in close contact with someone who is or may have been infected by the virus, and you feel sick, with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should follow the following recommendations:
Seek medical attention immediately: before going to the health center, call in advance and inform them about your case, your suspicion, and your symptoms (if you have them).
Avoid contact with other people, or follow specific preventive indications. Do not travel while sick.
Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze. Wash your hands frequently using plenty of water and soap for at least 20 seconds.
If you cannot do this, use alcoholic disinfectant preparations for these cases. It is important to note that the virus has an incubation period of 14 days.
If you had the virus, during that time you will not have symptoms, but you could infect other people. For this reason, and in case of doubts, you should take the preventive measures that an infected person would take.
Preventing the spread if infected
The coronavirus spreads very quickly. Once it enters a person’s body, the risk of transmission is very high.
Additionally, the coronavirus has a tendency to mutate, much like the flu virus.
If you are infected or believe you are, it is very important to follow these tips to prevent spreading the disease to others.
Stay at home: Activities outside the home should be restricted. Isolate yourself from other people: As much as possible, try not to mix with other people in the household.
Additionally, if possible, it is advisable to use a bathroom that the rest of the family does not use.
Use grooming and eating utensils that other household members do not use.
Notify your doctor before visiting: Call your doctor beforehand to inform them of your situation and suspicions of contagion.
This will not only help professionals take measures to prevent others from getting infected but also to choose the best form of assistance.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a disposable tissue.
Wash your hands afterward.
Wash your hands often with plenty of hot water (not scalding) and soap or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, those prepared for these cases.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands.
Do not share any grooming or food utensils that you have used (glasses, plates, towels, bedding, etc.).
