Now that some of the COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, it is still important to stay vigilant in protecting yourself from the virus. Adjusting to the “New Normal” as you go about your daily routine can be difficult, but luckily we’ve come up with some tips to help.
- Stay at home if sick
To reduce your risk of spreading illness, it is advised that you stay home if you feel sick, even if your symptoms are mild. Do not go to work or public places, and avoid using public transportation.
If your symptoms are severe or you feel like you need medical care, call your health care provider.
- Wash your hands thoroughly
Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds after sneezing, blowing your nose, coughing, and before preparing or eating food.
If you cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or the crook of your elbow. Dispose of any used tissues immediately.
- Avoid in-person transactions
Automating your monthly transactions is a great option to reduce your public exposure and minimize your risk of getting sick. Technology offers you the convenience of online bill payments and online or mobile banking, so there is no need to leave the house for most, if not all, of your routine payments. If you have to conduct any transactions in person, try to visit during an off-peak period where there will not be many persons present.
- Wear your face mask and use hand sanitizer
Wearing a face mask and sanitizing your hands regularly can help protect you and others from the virus. A mask is especially helpful in preventing you from frequently touching your mouth or nose.
If using a hand sanitizer, ensure that it contains at least 60 percent alcohol. For effective use, cover all parts of your hands and rub them together for 20-30 seconds until they feel dry. If your hands are visibly dirty, wash them with soap and water.
- Establish a cleaning schedule for your home
Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas is an important precaution to lower the risk of infection. To ensure that you clean these surfaces regularly, create a cleaning schedule for your home that includes a checklist of the various surfaces to be cleaned and the frequency of their cleaning.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products and be sure to read the manuals for any electronics before cleaning them as they are very sensitive to the chemicals in cleaning products. If no instructions for the cleaning products are available, consider the use of alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol.
- Follow the guidelines given by the Ministry of Health
Read and understand the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health for various establishments before visiting them. You can find these guidelines and other COVID-19 resources on the Ministry’s website here: http://www.health.gov.tt/sitepages/default.aspx?id=293