Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) gives a refresher on the minimum health standards that you and your family should keep in mind while this pandemic is still very much of a threat.
Be choosy with your masks. Face masks have been a part of our life on lockdown. But Dr. Marion Kwek from MakatiMed’s Section of Infectious Disease underlines the importance of the quality of your face mask.
“It’s a must for your mask to snugly fit your face. Choose a mask with nose wire so you can adjust it to your face accordingly. Avoid masks that have gaps on the side of the face. Masks that have exhalation valves or vents are also not effective in stopping the virus from spreading,” she says.
“Masks should also have at least two layers of breathable materials. It’s okay to double-mask or wear two masks to improve fit or fill gaps. But ideally, wear a disposable surgical mask underneath and a cloth mask on top. For men with beards, trim the beard close to the face for a better mask fit.”
Ventilation is essential. Improving ventilation can reduce virus particles from accumulating in the air in your home. To improve ventilation, open your windows, turn on fans or use air filters.
Sanitize high-touch surfaces. It’s good hygiene to sanitize high-touch surfaces in and out of the house. When cleaning, include doorknobs, tables, handles, light switches and countertops. When out on an errand, bring disinfecting wipes for guardrails, ATM pads and screens, and card readers.
Avoid touching your face. Keeping your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth—areas where viruses can enter the body—goes a long way in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and preventing infections. When you really need to, just make sure that you do so with clean hands, says Kwek.
Wash hands properly. “According to the World Health Organization, the proper washing of your hands with soap and water should take 40 to 60 seconds. Wet your hands then lather them with soap, targeting the back of your hands and between your fingers before you rinse them with running water,” Kwek says. “While you’re out, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer for 20 to 30 seconds. Make sure to wash your hands when you get home.”
Limit indoor shopping time. “There is a larger risk of being exposed to the virus when you’re indoors with strangers for a longer time,” says Kwek. “It’s smarter to have a list of your needs and do your groceries at a familiar store so you won’t have to linger looking for items you need. And of course, practice physical distancing at all times.”
Avoid large gatherings. Large gatherings bring together people coming from different households and increase the risk of possible exposure.
Getting vaccinated can help prevent severe COVID-19 infections, Kwek also reiterates. “But whether you’re vaccinated or not, avoiding exposure to the virus is the best way to keep COVID-19 away from your home. It’s best to mask up, wear a face shield, and keep observing safety protocols until this pandemic is all over.”
