Tips for Staying Healthy During COVID-19 Outbreak

WASH YOUR HANDS CORRECTLY

The right way to wash your hands is to use clean water, rub hands together to create a lather with soap, clean under your nails, wash for at least 20 seconds (sing the happy birthday song twice), and then rinse with clean water. You should be washing your hands before you eat, after using the bathroom, after changing diapers, after playing with animals, and before and after being around a sick person.

AVOID SICK PEOPLE

If you notice a friend, significant other, or colleague seems like they’re sick, stay away from them. If you do have to interact with them, don’t stand too close. Make sure to wash your hands before and after spending time with them…and especially steer clear if they’re sneezing or coughing.

STEER CLEAR OF CROWDED AREAS

The COVID virus spreads more easily in places with heavy traffic like schools, public transportation, and offices. If possible, avoid spending too much time in these places. Since you probably can’t avoid them completely, stay home if you aren’t feeling well. It’s also a good rule of thumb to keep yourself and the areas around you as clean as possible.

CLEAN AND DISINFECT EVERYTHING

Don’t let dirt and grime build up. Attempt to eliminate lurking bacteria and germs by keeping surfaces you interact with regularly nice and clean. A solution of bleach and water should be used to sanitize all food preparation and contact surfaces. 1 tablespoon of bleach per 1 gallon of water will give you a 50-200 ppm sanitizing solution. This can be used to sanitize dishes, utensils, food preparation counters and tables.

AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE

According to the Center for Disease Control, germs are most often spread when you touch something contaminated with germs and then touch your face, like your eyes, nose, or mouth.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET

While there is no magic COVID-fighting food, a healthy diet can help boost immunity and keep you healthy. You should also be focusing on a balanced diet of whole foods like fruits, veggies, healthy fats, carbs, and protein instead of processed foods.

EXERCISE REGULARLY

Take the time to work out about three to four times a week. Studies from 2006 show that moderate amounts of aerobic exercise can help boost your body’s defenses against viruses and bacteria. This includes things like brisk walking, jogging, and cycling.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP

Get at least seven hours of sleep each night, and if you start feeling like you might be sick, get even more

KEEP AN ALCOHOL-BASED HAND SANITIZER NEARBY

Washing your hands is still seen as the more effective way to prevent the COVID-19 virus and other illnesses, but hand sanitizers are also helpful if you can’t get to a sink.

STOP THE STRESS

Staying calm is really important when it comes to avoiding illnesses. Cortisol (a hormone released when you’re stressed) can help the body fight inflammation and disease. When you’re stressed and a lot of it gets released, it isn’t as effective. Try to stay calm through yoga, meditation, or simply making time for the things you love.

AVOID SHARING PERSONAL ITEMS

Don’t share personal items that may be packed with germs, such as toothbrushes, towels, utensils, and drinking glasses. This is especially true if someone is sick or just getting over being sick.