As of today, the whole Philippines remains under the state of calamity due to the current outbreak of “coronavirus” or COVID-19.

Coronavirus (COVID 19) is an infectious disease that causes a respiratory illness with symptoms such as cough, fever, and breathing difficulties that can lead to more severe cases. First detected in the central city of Wuhan, China last 2019, the virus had already spread globally and already recorded thousands of deaths and increasing of confirmed cases. The virus spread from person to person through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.

The Philippine government has already taken measures to mitigate the spread of the virus, but even then, we still hold utmost accountability in keeping ourselves and those around us safe from the pandemic. With that said, here are some tips on how we can all help contain the COVID-19 outbreak.

Wash your hands regularly

Washing your hands with plain soap and running water provides excellent protection against the virus. According to the Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization, the standard time you need to wash your hands should be at least a 20-second scrub. You can sing “Happy Birthday” twice or even use your favorite song.

Clean hands with alcohol or alcohol-based sanitizers frequently

If water and soap are not available, you can use alcohol or sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol solution as an alternative to reduce the number of germs on your hands. It is essential to bring alcohol and sanitizers handy especially if you are going out.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands

The virus is said to spread by inhaling droplets from an infected individual; however, it is likely that these droplets might also land on places that we touch with our hands. Touching your face with unwashed hands risk infection since the virus can enter easily though our mouth and eyes.

Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.

Follow good respiratory hygiene and practice coughing etiquette. Covering your mouth with tissue or the inside of your elbow helps contain possible viruses from spreading.

Stay at home

The more you go out, the more you are exposure to virus. If it is not necessary and there is nothing important that would really require you to leave the house, then just stay at home. By staying at home, you protect not only yourself but also everyone else as you can help limit the spread of the virus.

Maintain social distancing

Avoid unnecessary social gatherings, events and crowded places to avoid exposure to the virus. If you have to leave the house, it is advisable not to have any physical contact with others and have at least 1-meter distance to anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Be informed

Stay informed on the latest updates and developments about COVID-19 to be aware of how you can protect yourself and others from the virus.

Bayanihan spirit and prayers amidst the crisis

“This is the Filipino at his best –- giving the most to those who have the least. This is the true Filipino Bayanihan spirit that has not failed to lift up the country during countless disasters. We hope these acts of generosity continue as more of our kababayan will be needing assistance during the quarantine period and beyond.” – Senator Grace Poe

Kudos to those individuals and organizations who have been providing help to our fellow Filipinos who are in need at these times. Let us continue to spread awareness, positivity, and the Bayanihan spirit.

Even while staying at home and following the necessary precautions to help avoid the virus from spreading, we can still continue to support, thank, and pray for the gallant front liners, health workers, and medical professionals for their efforts and sacrifices in order to fight the deadly coronavirus. We can even join forces to show them that we are together in this fight against COVID-19. No matter what it takes.

Looking for a way to help? You can still volunteer while you’re at home by sharing your treasure which will help to fund the needs of our healthcare institutions. Visit www.ivolunteer.com.ph or click this link: www.ivolunteer.com.ph/organizations/2/events/6266 to learn more.

Let us all stay safe!