6 Safety Measures To Take When You Can`t Self Isolate
Many countries are already on a nationwide lockdown with only essential services in operation.
Several have recommended self-isolation as a precautionary measure to halt the spread of Coronavirus.
While one can’t deny the efficacy of self-isolation, in some cases you may have no choice but to go out, even if you don’t want to.
One good example would be health workers and first responders who still need to go to work to manage the crisis. In almost all cases, these are medical professionals who will know what to do to stay safe.
The problem arises when other people have to go to work because the companies they’re employed with are not shutting down. This group of people generally are not aware of the risks and necessary precautions they should take.
At times like these, you will need to proactively reduce your risks. During a pandemic like COVID-19, it’s almost impossible to eliminate the risks. All you can do is reduce them.
Let’s see how you can go about it with the following 6 safety measures to take when you can`t self isolate…
1. Avoid Public Transport If Possible
If you have your own vehicle, use it. Now is not the time to be environmentally conscious. If you don’t have your own vehicle, either use a bicycle or walk if the place you need to go to is not too far.
Alternatively, you may choose to car share with a few people you trust. Everyone needs to be onboard when it comes to staying cautious.
Mathematically speaking, car sharing is safer than taking a ride on a public bus or subway where the risks increase exponentially, just because of the sheer numbers of people on it.
Note: You will need to stay up to date on the current rules and guidelines. They can change on a daily/weekly basis.
2. Wipe Down Your Workstation
Use a disinfectant spray to wipe your workstation at the start of every work day. Use a mask if it makes you feel safe.
Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face. This is NOT paranoia. It’s a necessary measure.
Office spaces are usually air-conditioned and not too big. It’s easy for the virus to spread if just one person has it.
3. Keep To Yourself
Avoid hanging out in groups or mingling with your work colleagues. You’re not being unfriendly, you’re just being cautious.
Self-isolate at home and work as best as you can. Avoid eating with others and it’s best to eat at your own desk. Ideally, you should have brought food from home because you want to avoid going out too much.
The goal is to avoid crowds and people whenever possible. COVID-19 has been proven to be contagious and the only way to eradicate the spread is to minimise contact between people.
4. Ask Your Boss To Let You Work From Home
If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. Speak to your boss and see if it’s possible to work from home or come in to the office twice or three times a week.
You can still get the job done while maintaining some form of isolation. It’s in everyone’s best interest to do so. While this is not possible for those in the service industry, regular office workers should have no problems here.
It’s usually the management that needs to shift its mindset.
5. Shop online
If you do not need to go to work, you may probably only need to go out to get groceries. If possible, purchase most of your groceries online.
Sometimes, you may see that items are sold out or the website may ‘hang’ or cancel your order. Do try again at intervals.
Often, when the inventory is replenished your order will go through. It’s just a matter of being persistent.
Stores have implemented quotas so that customers can’t hoard. So while you can purchase the items you need, you’ll need to keep going back for more.
Shopping online will allow you to avoid breaking self-isolation and keep things relatively hassle free.
6. Monitor your health
Last but not least, monitor your health and strive to improve it. You still need to maintain your quality of life to a certain degree, even if your movements are more restricted during these challenging times.
Eat wisely. Exercise indoors daily. Boost your immune system with vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc and probiotics. Try to lose weight and eliminate unhealthy habits like smoking.
Focusing on your mental health is of equal importance as your physical well being. Prolonged periods of self isolation can cause a big increase in anxiety and depression issues amongst the population, therefore it is vital you try to keep your mind stimulated and keep you and your family occupied when stuck indoors for most of the day. I have a free e-course right now that you can subscribe to. It`s called “Pandemic Survival Solutions” and you can get instant access here.
Now is the time to prioritise your health and orientate yourself towards a better lifestyle. This COVID-19 pandemic will pass, but the positive habits you form now will serve you well all your life.
