StLukes corporate HealthCi



 Remain calm amongst the pandemic panic


It is easy to become alarmed by the media attention given to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and while the virus is concerning, and we don’t want to understate the seriousness of a potential pandemic, it is important to be aware of the facts to ensure we remain calm in addressing this situation.


As you are most likely aware, Coronavirus is a virus that causes illness similar to the common cold. The virus originated in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and has since spread to Australia with 52 confirmed cases as at March 5, 2020. 
The message St.LukesHealth wants to give is that you should ensure that you are well informed and alert to the situation rather than alarmed – alert as to how you can take control of your own personal health and hygiene to ensure that you and your family remain healthy and informed about the virus from reputable health information sources such as the Department of Health and World Health Organization.


If you feel panicked or anxious about Coronavirus, there are ways you can take back control.

 

Be aware of the symptoms and what to do if you become ill.

The Coronavirus symptoms are similar to the common cold. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people who are infected don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell. About 80 per cent recover without needing treatment.  Older people or people with pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer or diabetes appear to develop serious illness more than others. Some of the symptoms include:
•    Fever
•    Tiredness
•    Dry cough
•    Aches and pains
•    Nasal congestion
•    Runny nose
•    Sore throat
•    Diarrhea
•    Nausea and/or vomiting
•    Breathing difficulties.
If you do need to attend a medical centre, you should call ahead so that the treatment team are aware of your symptoms – this is important because people attending GP clinics are inherently unwell and may not be able to combat exposure to the virus like a usually fit and healthy person may be able to.
If you do become ill or feel unwell, it is important to stay at home and isolate yourself from others until you are well. This includes if you have mild symptoms. If you are at work, ask your workplace if you can work remotely from home if you are worried about spreading the virus.

 

Be aware of your personal hygiene and that of others.

We can channel our concerns into actions to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities by:
•    Washing your hands frequently: Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand rub.
•    Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth: Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, you can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose and mouth where it can enter your body and make you sick.
•    Cover your mouth when you cough: Make sure you cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Ensure you dispose of the used tissue immediately. We do this because droplets can spread viruses.
•    Maintain social distance: Maintain at least one metre between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. When someone coughs or sneezes, they spread droplets from their nose or mouth. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets.
•    Should I wear a mask?: Authorities suggest you only wear a mask if you are sick with Coronavirus symptoms or are looking after someone who has the virus. For more information on using a mask correctly, click here.


If you are anxious, take time to be mindful … or exercise!

If what you are hearing on the radio, watching on TV or reading online about Coronavirus is becoming overwhelming, it is important to switch off and take time to regroup. You can do this sitting on your back porch and taking the time to watch the sunset or alternatively you can download a range of mindfulness apps or podcasts on your smartphone. Give yourself the time to unwind and breathe.
If sitting still in the moment is not your thing, exercise is a great way to clear the mind. Go for a walk, bike ride or run and enjoy some fresh air. Research shows that exercise can make you feel happier, more relaxed and help with sleep.


Be aware of what you are putting in your mouth.

In times of worry, it can be easy to make unhealthy choices when it comes to meals and drinks, which in some instances can only add to your stress. Ditch the takeaway and alcohol for something your body will thank you for – water, fresh fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and protein. These things increase the immune system and allows your body to flush out any toxins.

 

 Enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Did you know there are functions the brain and body need to complete each day that can only be accomplished when we sleep? If we deprive our bodies of between seven to nine hours of continuous sleep a day, we are in danger of sleep deprivation and the ill health that can follow. Those who are well rested are more likely to have stronger immune systems to fight off bacteria and viruses.
Remember, while Coronavirus is serious, it is important to remain calm and take hygienic precautions. Should you require further information about the virus, visit the Department of Health and World Health Organization

The St.LukesHealth Team

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