There’s no question that the COVID-19 (or coronavirus) outbreak is changing people’s lives. As countries go on lockdown around the world, schools close, companies move remote, and businesses temporarily shut down, it’s leaving us with a lot of uncertainty on what happens next.
In the midst of a global pandemic, a lot of panic and fear can cause a rise in misinformation. Here at Wellistic, we aim to provide information from credible sources in the hope of educating in the best way possible.
It’s okay if you’re feeling anxious with all the changes that are happening. It seems like every single news article and social media feed has been inundated with stories and information about the virus. The coronavirus can cause stress in many people and trigger mental health symptoms in others. But there are ways to cope. When it comes down to it, we’re all in this together, even if we have to socially isolate ourselves through social distancing or self quarantining to protect each other. Today, we’ll explore the ways you can best equip yourself during the outbreak.
The Virus: Basic Facts
Coronavirus, which first appeared in Wuhan, China in 2019, has now infected over 120,000 people around the world and caused thousands of deaths. Symptoms of the virus are similar to a respiratory infection, including fever, cough, and fatigue. The virus spreads when droplets released through coughing or sneezing land on objects and other people, who then touch their face.
Though about one in five people who catch coronavirus will need hospital care, most people who get the virus experience mild symptoms and a full recovery. Those with compromised immune systems and other health conditions, as well as the elderly, are more at risk of developing serious illness.
You can protect yourself in many ways, including practicing good hand-washing technique and general hygiene, staying away from others, and seeking medical attention if you present symptoms.
Your Emergency Kit
Whether your community’s every-day life has moved to being more home-bound or not, it’s important to have the essentials on hand in case of emergency. Below is a list of things to include in your at-home emergency kit.
• Non-perishable foods (at least a two-week supply that includes dry goods, canned goods and shelf-stable beverages)
• Cleaning/hygiene supplies (disinfectant sprays, hand sanitizers, antibacterial soaps)
• Basic medical supplies (medicines for fever, cough, but please avoid anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Prescription medication (at least a 30-day supply)
• First Aid Kit
• Access to healthcare facility information (phone numbers, address)
• Health records
• Pet care products (food, vet’s contact information)
Your Comfort Kit
During this time of panic and uncertainty, your mental health matters too. We recommend including things in your emergency kit that help you feel happy, calm, and entertained. This can include self-care products such as candles, soft blankets, and calming music, to materials for your hobbies such as board games or crafts. We also think it’s a good idea to have your favorite chocolate or guilty-pleasure snack on hand, you never know when you might need it!
The CDC suggests a few ways you can manage your mental health during this time. This includes:
• Sharing facts instead of fear to understand the outbreak and your risks.
• Taking breaks from media outlets reporting about the virus (including social media).
• Connecting with others and talking about the ways you are feeling.
The eruption of the coronavirus outbreak may be upsetting, uncomfortable, and distressing, but with proper preparation and precaution, you can continue to stay safe, healthy, and joyful in your life. We’ll be with you to guide you through it.
Sources
- https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/coronavirus-emergency-kit-preparation-symptoms-tips-200314103304717.html
- https://www.businessinsider.com/what-to-buy-for-home-quarantine-coronavirus-2020-3#dont-forget-about-your-mental-health-8
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html
- https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses
