Being Prepared For Normality With Covid 19
Cover Photo by Unsplash
As we all experience unprecedented situations lately, questions arise about how to shop safely, order and manage food to minimize the transmission of the new coronavirus (Covid-19). It’s good to keep a check on things!
Coronavirus protection
There is currently no scientific evidence of coronavirus transmission through food or packaging. However, it has been confirmed that the strain of this virus can survive on object surfaces for a period of time. For this reason, the adoption of basic rules of personal hygiene, such as regular hand washing after any contact with frequently used objects (eg buttons, knobs, handles) is very important. You may wish to invest in disposable gloves that can be worn in ‘high risk’ areas such as public transport or the use of pin machines. To add to this, the use of protective masks is mandatory in many stores. Protective masks are said to stop the spread of bacteria associated with breathing, talking or coughing. An n95 mask is one of the most popular as it claims to be the most effective when halting the transmission of the virus. Be sure to wash your mask on a regular basis if it is not a disposable kind, as bacteria may cling to the outside of your mask and spread elsewhere.
How is the Coronavirus transmitted?
According to the scientists, the main method of transmission of Covid-19 is the diffusion of droplets by a carrier person (whether it shows symptoms or not). Therefore, social exclusion is the most basic precaution you can take to reduce the risk to both yourself and others.
What is the lifespan of the Coronavirus?
According to the latest scientific data, Covid-19 can survive up to 3 hours in the air, up to one hour on cardboard surfaces and up to 3 days on plastic and metal surfaces. With a no touch tool, you can feel safer going out in public.
Nutrition and Coronavirus
To date, the association of dietary factors with a reduced risk of acute infections, such as Covid-19, has not been scientifically proven. But we know that maintaining a strong immune system is based on a healthy lifestyle as a whole. In this regard, the combination of a complete and balanced diet, systematic physical activity, stress management techniques and adequate sleep is the cornerstone for strengthening the immune system. Be sure to include at least 5 portions of fresh fruit and vegetables in your daily diet, and focus on whole foods that are high in nutrients rather than processed items that are packed with sugar and fat. Though you may not be able to attend your usual fitness centre or sports class, maintaining a good exercise regime will help you to stay strong and fight off illness - home workouts are taking the world by storm thanks to stay at home guidelines, so this could be an area you enjoy exploring. The stress and anxiety associated with the pandemic has had a negative effect on many people’s sleeping patterns, making it difficult to drift off and remain comfortably asleep. Finding ways to relax and unwind before bed can help to combat this, whilst a little research on the theory behind sleep hygiene can also be of benefit.
Practical tips for shopping:
Use antiseptic wipes to wipe all surfaces of the trolley or basket you touch and discard immediately after use.
Avoid touching your face every time you are in a public place.
Always have hand sanitizer with you which you will use when you leave the store.
Remember to clean your car door handles and cabinets if you have touched them without cleaning your hands.
Some stores may have run out of hand sanitizers. Make sure you are prepared and have a pair of disposable gloves with you. Wear them before touching the shopping cart.
Physical activity
It is important to schedule a set time for exercise or other fun physical activity, otherwise you may be constantly postponing it. Take advantage of technology and social media. There are countless free virtual exercise resources. Download free fitness apps on your mobile or tablet or visit YouTube and search for your favorite form of fitness: yoga, pilates, dance, kickboxing etc. In addition, several fitness centers and experienced trainers offer live-streaming workouts on Instagram that provide a real-time experience. Encourage family or just yourself and walk in the neighborhood when the weather allows, keeping a distance of at least 2 meters from other people you meet outside. Walking or jogging on a sunny spring day is not only enjoyable, but can also boost vitamin D levels. Think outside the box: exercise is not necessarily about watching a video or running. Try to move inside the house throughout the day, even if you have a limited space.
