What Steps To Be Taken If You Feel Covid-19 Symptoms

The second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic has taken over the world and at a greater magnitude, in India. Active cases are increasing at a significant rate and the medical resources are running out. Hence, it is best to take the necessary precautions to avoid contracting the infection. But, incase of showing symptoms of the infection, the following are the steps to be taken:

1. Isolate Yourself

This infection is extremely contagious and can spread with even the slightest form of contact. It is primarily spread through droplet infection. Hence, it is vital to isolate yourself and avoid contact with others in order to curb the spread of the infection. Many cases where a person may have shown symptoms, have recovered only because of self isolating and without professional medical help. Only visit a doctor when the symptoms are severe.

‍2. Monitor Your Vitals

Vitals such as pulse rate and oxygen saturation levels need to be constantly monitored, noted and communicated with your physician. Any sudden changes in these levels need to be reported immediately and taken up seriously. These checks are vital for individuals without symptoms because the infection may also be present in asymptomatic bodies and can quickly progress.‍

‍3. Avoid Public Transportation

Public transportation needs to be avoided at any cost whether symptomatic or asymptomatic, unless extremely essential and only in a situation of emergency. Travelling in personal vehicles is a safer option since the environment is controlled and isn’t utilized by any other individuals.

4. Sanitize Frequently And Maintain Good Personal Hygiene Habits

The two major methods of prevention of the spread of this infection are sanitization and the use of appropriate masks. After showing symptoms, one has to increase the frequency of sanitization and disinfecting areas of contact. High contact zones have to be disinfected and hence made free of any infection spreading.

5. Avoid Sharing Personal Belongings

Personal belongings are the biggest carriers of viral infections and pave way for a faster spread of infection. It is not advisable to share personal belongings unless extremely essential. In the event of sharing personal belongings, ensure complete disinfection of the objects, to ensure no spread in the infection.

6. Get Yourself Admitted In Case Of Prolonged Or Increased Severity Of The Symptoms

On the advice of your local physician, ensure immediate admission into a healthcare facility at the earliest. Prolonged symptoms and an increased severity define an increased state of the infection and require immediate medical attention.

7. Keep Your Contacts Informed Of The Symptoms

People who have been in close contact with you in the recent times would have higher chances of contacting the infection and hence the need to be in the know of your symptoms so that they can get checked for the infection if need be. Contact tracing is a great method of keeping the spread of the infection in check.

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Healthcare facilities are getting extremely overcrowded and the situation is getting worse day after day. There have been cases of healthcare workers overworking and hospitals receiving patients way over their capacity. It is best to take all the necessary precautions and stay safe in these uncertain times.

More importantly, it is vital to keep a positive frame of mind and not be influenced by the barrage of news on the various channels. We have a good recovery rate and the vast majority of people have recovered by following the right protocols in self-isolation.