Coronavirus (CoV), a respiratory virus is a part of a huge family of viruses that can cause severe illness. As per the evidence so far, the COVID-19 virus can be transmitted not only in cold areas but also in hot and humid weather. So, irrespective of the climate of the place where you live, you should adopt protective measures against COVID-19. This new virus primarily spreads through droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or from their saliva or nasal discharge.

Elderly people or people who suffer from pre-existing medical conditions like lung or heart disease or diabetes are said to be at higher risk of developing serious complications from COVID-19. Presently, there is no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease. Hence, it is believed that the best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by taking the necessary safety measure. Few of these precautionary measures are mentioned below:

• Wash your hands repeatedly – Washing your hands often with soap and water is recommended for at least 20-seconds especially if you have been to a public place, or after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. You can also use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol to disinfect your hands.

• Maintain a minimum distance with the people around – You should maintain at least 1-meter distance with anyone who is sneezing or coughing. When a person coughs or sneezes small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth are sprayed in the air which may contain the virus. If you stand or sit too close with that person, the chances of you breathing the COVID-19 infected droplets increases.

• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose – Your hands usually touch many surfaces and thus the chance of picking up viruses is also higher. Once contaminated, they can transmit the virus to your eyes, mouth or nose from where the virus can enter your body and can make you fall sick. Also, clean the surfaces touched regularly with any common EPA-registered household disinfectants.

• Stay back at home if you are sick – Don’t step out of your home if you feel unwell i.e. have a fever, cough and face difficulty in breathing. You should seek medical attention and follow the directions of your local health authority.

• Practice respiratory hygiene – Since droplets spread the virus, following good respiratory hygiene can protect you and the people around you from getting contaminated. You can either wear a facemask when you are around other people in crowded places or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow while you sneeze or cough. The tissue you use should be disposed of immediately.