It’s strange to imagine that just several months ago, the term Coronavirus was something that was barely understood. COVID-19 did not exist and the world was functioning as we know it.

Well, things have certainly turned on their head. This has well and truly taken over lives and while we have seen some terrible viruses over time, none have impacted the world in the way in which COVIC-19 has done.

As we write this, we do so from a locked down location. As you read this, you’re probably doing the same. However, in general terms, what can you do to protect yourself from this respiratory virus? Today’s article will delve into some tips to help you along your way.

The classic advice still remains: wash your hands

Something else that feels utterly bizarre is that we’re now being educated on how to wash our hands. There was once a time where we did this passively – we didn’t give it a conscious thought whatsoever.

Well, considering the fact that COVIC-19 is mainly transmitted through your hands, this has been a sudden change.

Wash your hands as frequently as possible, using either soap and water or an alcohol-based hand gel. Both of these approaches are able to kill viruses, meaning that the chance of you succumbing to them is immediately reduced.

But that doesn’t mean to say you can touch your face

You might think that you are constantly killing germs that touch your hands but in reality, you probably aren’t. There will be occasions where you briefly touch a surface and as a result, potentially pick up the virus. Sure, facilities around the land might be using medical towels and anything else they can find to wipe down surfaces but things will still be left behind.

This is where you need to be extra vigilant. Try whatever you can to prevent touching your eyes, nose and mouth as these are the parts of your body which allow the virus to be transferred to your body. You might wear gloves, or you might make an extra conscious effort to not touch these areas – but try everything you can to make sure it doesn’t happen.

If you need to cough, cough properly

That’s right, we’re being educated on how to cough properly as well. For years you may have coughed into your hand, but this is just asking for trouble. All this will do is spread droplets to your hands and the rest, as they say, is history.

Instead, the best way to cough is to cover your mouth and nose with the inner part of your elbow. Or, better still, use tissue and dispose of it straight away.

Listen to the government advice about social distancing

This final point is going to differ depending on where in the world you live. However, it would be fair to say that over recent times, we have seen a surge in lockdowns. In other words, countries aren’t just asking their residents to stay indoors – they are instructing them.

If your nation hasn’t got to this point, then at least practice the standard social distancing rules. This means maintaining at least one meter (but preferably more) from someone who is coughing or sneezing. While this isn’t foolproof, it is something that can least reduce the chances of you inhaling the droplets and subsequently becoming ill.