Although the first confirmed case of Corona Virus was reported way back in January in the U.S, now the nation is grappling with uncertainty. According to the latest update by The Washington Post, there are over 6000 confirmed cases and 100 deaths by March 18. 2020. It is found that older adults and people with heart or lung diseases or diabetes are at a higher risk of getting this illness. So, what to do if you are a caregiver of a loved one who has been recently fallen sick?
Well, sickness may be because of various reasons such as aging or a weak immune system. Amidst the present scenario, any recent sickness of your loved one can become a matter of concern for you. As a caregiver, it may not be feasible for you to maintain a safe distance as recommended by healthcare experts. So, watch for the symptoms and keep in mind the following caregiver tips.
COVID-19 symptoms and warning signs
According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the following are the symptoms and emergency warning signs for the infectious disease.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Emergency warning signs
- Difficulty in breathing
- Persistent chest pain
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
If you find that your loved one has developed any of the above symptoms or warning signs, contact your healthcare provider immediately. If thankfully, there is no such sign, you must follow the below caregiving tips to ensure yourself and your loved one from getting this disease. Be aware of the fake news and myths that are making rounds over the web. You can check the website of the World Health Organization (WHO) to have clarity.
Caregiving tips amidst coronavirus outbreak
- Try to use a separate washroom and bedroom if possible
- Discourage his or her exposure to visitors as much as possible
- Continue to help in meeting basic needs at home
- Follow a proper handwashing regime for at least 20 seconds with soap and water after regular intervals. You can also use a sanitizer with 60-95% alcohol content.
- Refrain your loved one from touching the pets (if any at home)
- Wear a disposable face shield which could effectively cover the front and sides of your face
- Try to avoid touching your face without washing your hands
- Do not share any household items such as drinking glasses, utensils or towels with your loved one
- Encourage your loved one to wear a face mask when he or she is around people either at home or in the outdoors
- Thoroughly clean all high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, keyboards, bedside table, and so on
- Refrain from using public transport such as metro, trains, and taxis
- Closely monitor your diet as well that of your loved one(Remember, it is important to have nutritious food to stay in sound health)
Apart from the above tips, also encourage all other family members who have any close contact with a person tested positive or under investigation for COVID-19 to monitor their own health.
Always remain vigilant. If you think that anyone around you or your loved one may be a Covid-19 patient under investigation, contact your local or state health department immediately. Also, follow the steps if you fall sick by following the guidelines at CDC.