The do's and do not's of self-quarantine

As the country enters the fourth phase of the extended lockdown, not only in Mumbai but in other states as well a certain amount of lackadaisical attitude has emerged when it comes to social distancing.

It is important to note that even though we might be nearing the end of the lockdown, we have not been able to defeat the virus yet. As researchers work towards developing a drug, it is crucial that we remember the do’s and do not’s of self-quarantining. As per advice from the health experts, some of the guidelines have been listed below.

The Do’s

• Practice good hygiene. Just washing the hands is not enough. Wash hands frequently, especially before you eat and after you have used the restroom.
• If there is a sneeze brewing, make sure you sneeze in the crook of your elbow and not in your hands.
• Try and maintain distance from your family and make sure that you avoid all physical contact. If you are going to be in close contact, then wear a mask while interacting with them.
• Sanitize and wipe all the surfaces which come in regular contact. It could include study desks, doorknobs or the dining table. If there is a surface that you will be sharing with the members of the family, then it should be frequently sanitized. 
• Be mindful of how frequently the hand touches the face. It is not new information that the virus is contagious and spreads mostly through hands. Therefore, it is important to make sure that your hands do not touch your mouth or eyes.
• Try consuming foods that boost immunity, like milk with turmeric or vitamin C.
• The most important and the obvious one, wear your mask at all times.

Do not’s

• Do not think that a scarf around the face is a substitute for a mask. Scarfs are loose fitting and do not provide the necessary protection.
• Social distancing is not a vacation. This is not a time to meet friends or party. Instead, stay home and try to be aligned with your own mental self.
• Shaking hands to greet people is not an option anymore. Go for a namaste or an adab instead.  
• Panicking is not an option. Read about the virus and gather all the information you can. If you have a cold, wait for a couple of days after taking the medicines. In some of the cases, it is just the common cold.
• Try not to share items of daily use. Like clothes or utensils.
• Do not step out of the house under any circumstance.