You may already be tired of hearing about the new virus that seems to be affecting the entire world - or almost.
Staying informed and vigilant is important, but in our opinion, the best approach is to remain calm and follow the recommendations of groups like the World Health Organization. The WHO currently recommends, and generally recommends, a very simple method to protect ourselves against COVID-19: washing our hands thoroughly and frequently.
Do you know how to wash your hands?
In general, people don't wash their hands properly. I include myself in this, since despite being aware of the importance of this simple act, I often do it too quickly. The basic guidelines for handwashing are:
1- With enough soap
2- For about a minute
3- Cleaning well between the fingers
4- Rinsing and drying ourselves well
When do we wash our hands?
In my house, we've had handwashing rules since the children were very young. We started because our first child was born very small, and from the beginning, he seemed susceptible to all kinds of viruses—I've lost count of the times he's had stomach bugs, but it's been a lot. The general rules are:
1- Before eating
2- Upon entering the house after being outside
3- After using the toilet
4- After sneezing
5- In addition to specific times if we deem it necessary - after touching animals, if they are visibly dirty, etc.
What else can I do?
With young children at home, the reality is that coughs and runny noses are a constant companion throughout the winter, although so far this year none of them have had a fever. If they are obviously ill (fever, diarrhea, vomiting), the children don't go to school until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours. But if they are very uncomfortable, with a persistent cough or congestion, I don't send them to school either. The adults follow the same guidelines.
In addition, we have taught them to cough and sneeze into the inside of their elbow – and not into their hands – and to use disposable tissues.
What should I take?
No matter how often we wash our hands, the reality is that we are exposed to viruses and bacteria every day that can make us sick. It's important for us to try to maintain a strong immune system with a balanced diet, low in refined sugar and high in foods that support our immune system—fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, fermented foods—and we also get some sun whenever possible.
We also take vitamins, omega 3 and minerals daily, and at times when we know there are viruses in our circle - or as now worldwide - we take a probiotic supplement.
Here is a collection of supplements to boost your immune system.
How are you taking care of yourself right now?