According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India is currently at the second stage of the spread of COVID-19. As per research, the third stage of diseases transmission is called Community Transmission (i.e. when infections within a population are not imported from another virus-hit area). To prevent the country from entering this third stage, the Government of India has announced a complete lockdown in 75 Indian cities and districts till March 31, 2020.
This lockdown is announced as a precautionary measure to curtail the spread of novel Coronavirus infection. All citizens are being strongly encouraged to stay indoors and not step out unless there is an emergency.
Considering the current situation, it is advisable not to panic and to understand the necessary actions that every household must take.
Here is a list of quick Do’s and Don’ts that must be followed during the lockdown:
Firstly, STAY AT HOME. Do not step out unless there is an emergency. Parents must explain the importance of this to their children and take special care of the elderly at home.
Clean your homes regularly. Use a simple disinfectant to clean bathroom surfaces, slabs, kitchen floors, door handles and personal appliances such as laptops and chargers. Wash your hands with soap and water after handling home-delivered packages and appliances. Ask your domestic help to stay at home and take care of themselves and their families. Educate them on the importance of basic hand and face hygiene practices that must be followed.
If anyone in your family is showing signs of flu/fever, do not panic and conclude that they are infected with COVID-19. Consult your General Physician before rushing to the hospital or clinic. Stay in touch with your doctor and follow their instructions.
Call the Government helpline number that is assigned to your state for any Coronavirus-related queries. Find the toll-free numbers here. Do not rush to hospitals/medical centres for COVID-19 testing unless the tests are recommended by your doctor. Remember, there could be long-waiting lines in hospitals and a higher risk of contracting the COVID-19 infection. Request the designated lab closest to you to send someone to collect your testing sample at home. Here is a list of all testing centres for COVID-19 in India:
Practice social distancing at home too. Keep at least 6 feet away from all family members.
Do not indulge in panic buying. Make sure you have enough shelf-stable foods like rice, dry pulses, coffee and sugar.
To combat boredom during a lockdown, pick a creative or fun activity every day that can be done at home. Ensure to use a comfortable desk and chair while working for long hours on your laptop.
Lastly, remember to follow hand and face hygiene practices even while you are indoors. Load up on Vitamin C and immunity-boosting foods.
Stay positive. Stay indoors. Stay safe.