lifestyle
How to prevent
CORONAVIRUS from spreading
Tips to keep you, your family and the rest of Joburg healthy It’s a stressful time as the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to climb across South Africa and the world. The number-one question locals and tourists are asking is what they can do to prevent it from spreading. So, here are some simple, specific steps you can take to protect yourself and others from becoming infected.
Get your hands soapy and scrub, scrub, scrub! Yes, you’ve heard it a million times before, but washing your hands – often – is one of the most important things you can do. While many Joburg businesses in the service industry from restaurants to beauty salons have made it their top priority to follow the strictest cleanliness regime at all times, we still recommend getting to a sink and washing your hands wherever possible. This is especially important after you’ve been out in public or have touched a common surface that others may have touched, after coughing and sneezing, and before cooking and eating. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and be sure to get every part of your hands and fingers. No sink nearby? Using hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol content will do the trick until you can get to a sink. Hit pause on all types of touching If you’re feeling fine, you might think it’s fine to hug, kiss shake hands, high five, fist bump and rub elbows. However, doctors have advised that whether you’re feeling under the weather or not, it’s important to keep some space between you when you’re around other people – an arm’s length will do. When you’re around others, also make sure you cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and then wash your hands straight away to stop viral particles and germs from spreading. Thoroughly disinfect all common use surfaces At home, it’s so important to thoroughly sanitise common use surfaces including countertops, bathrooms, computers and remotes using disinfectant spray or wipes – Dettol is a great brand to use. Cleaning your cellphone is also a must. If you visit a local restaurant, wipe down the table and menu before and after use. The same goes if you visit the gym – wipe down the machines and weights as well as maintain a distance of one to two metres between you and other exercisers. Stay home and read Hello Joburg Magazine Limiting how much time you spend out in public or around others is key to preventing the spread of germs. So, especially if you’re not feeling well, work from home if you can, walk or travel by car instead of public transportation like the Gautrain wherever possible, and avoid travelling for leisure (both domestically and internationally). While you’re spending some time indoors, check @HelloJoburgMag out on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter – we promise we’ll keep you entertained until this is all over!
What to do while self-isolating Be a couch potato and proud: Netflix and chill should be the first task for everyone. Watch that bad TV show you’ve always wanted to, finish that series … you can do it, you got this! Turn over a new page (literally): After you’ve watched finished your series, get into a fluffy robe, pour yourself a glass of wine and snuggle up with one of your untouched books. Dust off the board games: When last did you play a bit of Monopoly or Cluedo? Or even Scrabble? Declutter your home: Forget spring cleaning – it’s corona cleaning time! Cull your pantry and cupboards or rearrange your lounge and living areas. While you’re at it, disinfect everything too. Work out in your PJs: You can do lunges, squats, weights and pushups all in the comfort of your own home. You can even do weights with your cat or books if you have to. Get your cook on: Whip out an old cookbook and turn up the heat in the kitchen. This is a good idea especially after you’ve cleaned out your pantry. Hello Joburg • April 2020 • www.hellojoburg.co.za
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