Coronavirus Dos and Don'ts - Shall I Self Isolate?

The coronavirus pandemic is still raging across the world and there is no better time than now to keep yourself protected from this potentially deadly disease. Covid-19, as the disease has come to be known, is caused by the novel coronavirus that can spread very rapidly from person to person via droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs.Even though a lot of effort is being put into developing a vaccine, there is still no definite cure for Covid-19. That is why, health experts say that the best way to protect yourself from the coronavirus is to stay at home as much as you can, keep a distance from others when outside, always wear a mask when in the vicinity of others, and practice disciplined hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

The primary way that the coronavirus can be transmitted is when an infected person comes in contact with a non infected person. When the infected person coughs or sneezes, the virus can be carried in droplets to another person in the vicinity who inhales the virus. Similarly, an infected person can also shed the virus by touching surfaces. Then if another person touches the same surface and touches their nose, mouth or eyes, there is a risk of being infected by the coronavirus.Thus, by minimising contact with others, one can stay safe from Covid-19.Self-isolation is when you isolate yourself from others if you’ve been infected with the virus, have recently come in contact with a Covid-19 infected person, or travelled from an affected country. It ensures that you don’t risk transmitting the virus to others and is required for a minimum of 14 days, which is the incubation period of the novel coronavirus.

• Wash your hands with soap and water as many times as you can for at least 20 seconds.
• You may use an alcohol based hand sanitizer with a minimum alcohol content of 60%.
• Ifyou’re feeling symptoms like fever, headache or cough, self-isolate immediately to protect your family and friends.
• Disinfect contact surfaces like doorknobs, armrests and railings frequently.
• Always wear a mask when going out.
• When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the bend of your elbow. Throw the tissue in a closed bin.
• Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others.
• Eat healthy food to boost your immunity.
• Seek medical care if you're having symptoms like cough, fever or breathing difficulty.
• Take good care of the elderly, children and people with pre-existing illnesses.

• Do not touch your nose, mouth or eyes without proper handwashing, especially when outside.
• Avoid meeting other people that are likely to carry the virus, like recently travelled friends or family.
• Avoid public places.
• Do not shake hands with other people.
• Do not share food and drinks.
• Avoid travelling unless it is absolutely necessary.

Especially in these times, having health insurance can save you from a heavy financial burden. Quality healthcare in India can quickly burn a hole in your pocket due to the rising cost of treatment. Without a health insurance plan to help you, hospitalisation and treatment is likely to eat into your hard earned savings.Therefore, buying a health insurance policy can help you financially in case of an unannounced medical emergency. It ensures that your savings are protected because the policy will take care of your health expenditure while you can focus on getting healthier.

The information contained herein is generic in nature and is meant for educational purposes only. Nothing here is to be construed as an investment or financial or taxation advice nor to be considered as an invitation or solicitation or advertisement for any financial product. Readers are advised to exercise discretion and should seek independent professional advice prior to making any investment decision in relation to any financial product. Aditya Birla Capital Group is not liable for any decision arising out of the use of this information.