How To Protect Yourself From Coronavirus

By Sara Butler

Coronavirus is sweeping the nation -- quite literally. What was first reported in China late last year has now made its way to every continent but Antarctica. In lieu of moving to the South Pole and making a few penguins your new roommates, there are some simple precautions you can take to protect yourself from coronavirus. Here are a few tips to follow.

Wash Those Hands

The biggest thing you can do to protect your health is also the easiest -- wash your hands. Seriously.

Handwashing is a crucial step in stopping the spread of viruses such as coronavirus and is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help reduce your risk of contracting flu, coronavirus, and other bugs.

You should wash your hands after you use the bathroom, after you blow your nose, sneeze, or cough, and before you eat. You should also wash your hands after using common items in public, such as gas pumps, ATMs, and touchpads. But it’s not just all about quantity, it’s about quality too. How you wash your hands makes a big difference in its effectiveness. And I bet you never thought you’d get another handwashing lesson after you left grade school.

To wash your hands properly, rinse your hands for a few seconds under warm water, then apply soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds. To help you pass the time, hum the Happy Birthday song twice or Rick Astley’s chorus from “Never Gonna Give You Up.” That’s right -- give those germs the Rick Roll. Rinse and you’re good to go.

When you’re at home it’s not a bad idea to clean surfaces that frequently get touched such as counters, handles (including the toilet), light switches, and doorknobs with disinfectant.

Keep Sanitizer on Hand

While washing hands is always best, if you’re in a situation where it’s not feasible, then alcohol-based hand sanitizer that’s at least 60 percent alcohol is the next best thing. Cleaning your hands after touching surfaces in public areas or after you’ve been in a crowded space is good practice. Also, try to not touch your nose, mouth, and eyes when you’re out. It can be difficult, but try to stay diligent. Keeping your hands in your pockets can help, especially if you’re wearing something like a hoodie.

Cut Down on Close Contact

No doubt you’ve heard a thing or two about social distancing the last few weeks. Depending on where you live, you’ve seen these measures in actions such as closed schools or sporting events. You should follow the lead of your local health officials when it comes to social gatherings where you live.

According to the CDC, people at the highest risk from serious illness due to coronavirus are people over the age of 60, as well as anyone with chronic medical conditions such as lung disease, heart disease, and diabetes. These people should avoid cruises, non-essential travel, and crowds. If you live in a community where coronavirus is making a big impact, then the best strategy is to simply stay home.

It’s also advised that you avoid people who are coughing or ill. The CDC says that respiratory viruses such as coronavirus are spread between people who are six feet apart or less. So when you do go out, to the store, or the gas station, try to keep that distance in mind.

Stay Safe and Healthy Out There

Researchers are working diligently to learn about the coronavirus to find effective ways to treat it. Until a breakthrough is made, everyone must do their part to keep the disease from spreading. If you follow the simple steps we’ve outlined here, then you’re doing what you can to protect yourself from coronavirus. And remember, to protect those you love from getting ill, you first have to protect yourself.

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this page are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this post is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics, including but not limited to the benefits of chiropractic care, exercise and nutrition. It is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your chiropractor, physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this page.