People are understandably disturbed about the spread of COVID-19, yet the growing concern of others has swiftly turned to panic. Everyday – around 26,000 people die of cancer, approximately 24,000 people die of heart failure, and about 5,000 die of diabetes. Nevertheless, a lot of us are much more frightened of contracting the conceivably deadly coronavirus disease.
Under the mass hysteria, stores are experiencing such difficult times in keeping pace with consumer demand for face masks and hand sanitizers. Many store shelves have been cleared of the two products, which prompt online sellers with stocks to raise prices. At these times, it is hard to say when sanitizers and disposable face masks will be readily available again. Yet, experts state that there is no need to hoard these items and no need to panic over COVID-19.
Let’s lay down necessary information that experts want you to know, plus some advice on what to do during these times.
The Medical Experts’ Rationale on DIY Hand Sanitizer
Amidst the coronavirus panic and decreasing supply of hand sanitizers, you will find several recipes and tutorials on how to make your own. In a matter of a few seconds, your Internet search will pull up several guides, videos, and even news articles about making DIY hand sanitizers. If you think about selling them, you can label them through a private label sanitizer.
In making a personal hand sanitizer at home, you need to be precise about your ingredients. For it to be effective, the formulation should be at least 60% alcohol. Either ethanol or isopropanol will do, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Also, an emollient or moisturizer must be added in the mixture to keep the alcohol from drying the skin. Still, several experts are against homemade hand sanitizer concoction and remind the possible dangers of inaccurate measurement during the mixture.
Hand Sanitizer Works, But Hand Washing is Better
You may think that hand sanitizing is just the same as hand washing, but it is not. Actually, there’s a significant difference. A hand sanitizer, although alcohol-based, can only disinfect the hands and reduce the number of germs, but it doesn’t remove anything. Whereas, hand washing works otherwise. Instead of killing bacteria and viruses, it tends to lift and washes away oil, dirt, and other harmful agents – leaving your hands almost free from hazardous pathogens.
So you might ask if hand sanitizers are still beneficial and useful – well, of course, they are! They are handy whenever you need to disinfect your hands and hand washing is impossible to do.
Do You Really Need to Wear a Face Mask?
As stated by the World Health Organization (WHO), people who are deemed healthy don’t have to use face masks except for sick individuals or caring for the sick. During these days of the pandemic crisis, anyone who is sneezing or coughing should wear a face mask too. This safety precaution will only be effective if matched with frequent hand washing or hand sanitizing.
What to Do if You Suspect of Being Infected with COVID-19?
The symptoms of COVID-19 simulate the symptoms of the typical flu, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you are experiencing these indications, don’t panic. Most COVID-19 patients manifest mild illness and are able to recover without medical care by keeping themselves isolated, hydrated, and getting proper rest. Also, avoid going to public places to secure others from viral exposure.
If you have a more advanced situation and need urgent medical intervention due to severe symptoms, call your doctor or the nearest care facility and tell them that you have to come in. Calling them before your arrival is important because they will provide further instructions. You may be asked to use a face mask upon your arrival and enter an area where you won’t have to expose other patients.
Experts approve that testing is only required for particular patients. The CDC recommends seeking a medical professional and getting a test if:
- you have been in direct contact with someone who has been diagnosed with the coronavirus or;
- has recently taken a trip where there are growing cases of the said disease, then develop flu-like symptoms.
What Should You Do if You Are Not Sick?
It is thought that COVID-19 disease passes from one person to another via respiratory droplets that are expelled whenever an infected individual coughs or sneezes. During these times, it would be wise to just stay at home and avoid any social gatherings. Even if you show no symptoms, it is better to practice precautionary measures. Remember, prevention is better than cure.
In Summary
Indeed, the COVID-19 disease outbreak had already penetrated most countries in the world and have killed many individuals. Let us support our medical experts and other front liners, who are risking their everyday lives, by helping to flatten the curve. Adhere to precautionary measures and help others if you can.
