COVID-19 has been given the status of a global pandemic. The nature of the situation is evolving continuously and it’s important that you stay on top of the latest updates, news, and resources regarding the virus and its effect on you and people close to you. Added to the scare of the virus spreading at a rapid rate, there is additional stress of school closure, isolation and financial vulnerability. While currently there is no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, researchers and doctors are tirelessly working towards it on a daily basis.
COVID-19 Symptoms
The symptoms vary from mild to severe. Usually the symptoms come to surface 2-14 days after the virus has been contracted, and most commonly include shortness of breath and cough. Other symptoms are fever, muscle pain, headache, chills, sore throat and a loss of taste or smell. Even though it is a new disease, it is part of the family of coronaviruses that typically cause common cold-like symptoms. People have been affected differently, with some only experiencing mild symptoms while many others who have got very sick and had to be hospitalized. While the majority has recovered, many have died as well. The main concern with COVID-19 is its newness and its unpredictability as we do not know enough about it yet.
People at Maximum Risk
Older people and people with chronic medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, lung disease and compromised immune systems are at maximum risk. It is also increasingly getting evident that children are not immune to this virus.
Several cases have been reported globally where young children have been found to be severely affected by COVID-19. According to Dr. Leera Lobo, Developmental Pediatrician, at Nanavati Super Specialty Hospital and Ummeed Child Development Center, “Studies have shown an increased severity of the virus in infants and young children (less than 5 years). Children with chronic heart/lungs/kidney diseases or leukemia are also at a higher risk of being affected because of their compromised immune systems and frequent visits to hospitals/health care facilities.”
As a general view however, children have been found to be less affected than adults. It is important to remember that the immune system of children is markedly different as they are young and growing. They are also less exposed to the virus as they are mostly in more protected environments with much less traveling. Children’s susceptibility to cross infections enable them to produce antibodies which may be cross-reacting and acting as a shield that protect them against the corona antigen that might be in their bodies.
Another vital point to consider is that children may remain asymptomatic or show very mild symptoms which can be a threat to adults, mostly elders, especially if they suffer from asthma or have been sick for a long time. If there are senior citizens in your family, it will be prudent to ensure that your child does not come in contact with any virus-contaminated surfaces or get close with symptomatic individuals.
How to Keep Your Family Protected
Even though there are currently no vaccine for prevention of COVID-19, there are preventive measures that can be taken to safeguard the health of your family –
- Sanitize your hands often with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds. Alternatively, hand sanitizers can also be used, but make sure they have at least 60% or higher alcohol content
- Practice social distancing: stay at home as much as possible and avoid group meets. If you absolutely have to venture out, for grocery or any other supplies, wear a mask
- Make your kids learn the habit of coughing or sneezing into a tissue or into their arms or elbows and not directly into their hands
- Keep your home clean and disinfected with cleaning sprays and wipes
- If you are washing stuffed toys, follow the washing guidelines and use really warm water and have them dry completely before use
- Do not touch your face as much as possible and make your children learn the same
- Keep yourself updated with local/state travel and stay-at-home precautionary measures
There are trying times and exercising protective measures is paramount to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. It is encouraged that you stay up to date with the latest news and updates on the situation as more information gets discovered on how to contain the virus from spreading in homes and communities.
COVID19 – The Way Forward With Nutriplus
Dr. Anthony Fauci, head of the United States task force on Coronavirus, has stated that we should get used to living with the virus for the foreseeable future. What it means is when we do completely get out of this lockdown, life will not be the ‘old normal’ anymore, and the ‘new normal’ will be the order of the day. From malls and restaurants to sporting events and concerts, the way we carry out our day-to-day lives will be hugely influenced by the pandemic. So, healthy lifestyle will no longer be a choice.
In a way, this whole episode has been a great leveler. Whether one is a university topper or a high school dropout, an investment banker or a taxi driver, no matter which strata of society one belongs, everyone will be forced to adopt healthy living. And what better way to make sure that you and your loved ones stay healthy than the Nutriplus range of products?
Looking for an ideal antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals? Nothing beats a glass sachet of EDG3 early in the morning on an empty stomach. Stir it in a glass of water and drink it. Want to boost your immunity to fight the virus? ImmunHealth is your best option. How about cutting down on refined sugar or maintaining optimum blood sugar levels? You have Busy Bee Monofloral Honey, Natose Stevia, and DiabaHealth. With over a dozen options that caters to a variety of dietary needs of all age groups, the Nutriplus range from QNET can be the perfect supplement to go with other healthy habits such as regular exercise, good sleep, and proper hydration.