Being on the frontline against the deadly pandemic: COVID-19

Take care of your health and stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak


March 24, 2020
EFU Life Assurance Ltd
Publishing Partner

The coronavirus pandemic situation is truly devastating. These days, every day seems to begin with abysmal, heart wrenching news of the rising number of affectees, as well as deaths, worldwide. Education systems are jolted, offices, restaurants, sporting events, festivals… everything is undergoing through a stringent lockdown. With the nasty Coronavirus (COVID-19) continuing to spread rapidly, globally, as well as in Pakistan, and no vaccine or specific treatment yet available, there is a lot of panic and anxiety prevailing worldwide because very little is known about this novel contagious disease.

While public health experts unreservedly agree that social distancing is the key to taming the new coronavirus and ultimately saving lives, this, for sure is not how one should follow social distancing. This in fact is quite the opposite. More like 'social close-ning' or 'social-what-on-earth-are-you-doing?'

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Well… without further ado, let’s take a look at the do’s and don’ts that are absolutely essential for us to follow at this point in our fight against this novel virus:


  1. Hygiene is the key


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DO: Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, several times a day. Use soap and water or a hand sanitiser with at least 70% alcohol before all your daily routine activities. Do not forget to disinfect your child’s toys, your mobile phones as well other surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, stairway railings and light switches in your home once every two-three days. Virus particles can survive for days on certain surfaces so it is important to keep these clean.

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DON’T: Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. It is important to be mindful of what surfaces you are touching and how frequently you are touching your face. If you have somehow come into contact with the virus, touching your face can help it enter your body.

 


  1. Humour and WHO can help


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DO: Reduce your stress. Countless studies have shown a correlation between stress and reduced immunity. Although some people may not like the idea of circulating memes, jokes, GIFs or videos amidst these tough times, it is proven that humour can relieve, or at least lessen the stress caused by the panic of the coronavirus pandemic.

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DON’T: It is safe to assume that each one of us has received countless unauthentic totka’s and ‘breaking news’ that have bombarded our phones unnecessarily (read: family WhatsApp groups.) It not only creates a state of panic but also causes unwanted stress to others. Refrain from being a Twitt-iot. Social media and other unreliable sources are spreading misinformation almost as fast as the coronavirus. Read only reliable sources like the World Health Organization.

 

 


  1. Make the right choice


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DO: In these times of agony, it is imperative that we take good care of our health as well as of those we love dearly. And it is a bitter truth that in such terrible situations, money is somewhat one of the central fundamentals. Therefore, it's time to opt for life insurance plans that ease the brunt on your loved ones, in case, something happens to you. Upon researching, we found that EFU Life Assurance is the only brand that has stepped up to give their insurance policies an extremely thoughtful and essential addition. EFU Life has introduced COVID-19 Care, Pakistan’s first life insurance initiative that provides financial assistance for COVID-19 (free coverage of Rs100,000), and the best part is, this feature is complimentary for all new and existing customers. With EFU Life, you can easily avoid getting trapped in the false assumptions.

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DON’T: It is absolutely crucial that, in case you have to cough or sneeze, please sneeze into the crook of your elbow. Given the safety gear shortage situation worldwide, it is absolutely okay to not wear a mask unless you are ill. Masks help protect others from catching the virus, but wearing one when you’re healthy won’t do much. Leave the masks for people who really need them, like the ailing or health care professionals.

 

 


  1. Distancing is the new trend


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DO: Practice social distancing. At these distressing times, it is essential to avoid large gatherings and crowds in poorly ventilated spaces. As a precaution, try to stay at three to six feet away from anyone who’s coughing or sneezing. Avoid shaking hands with people at all times. Health experts suggest waving or simply say “adaab” (by raising right hand towards the face with palm inwards) when greeting your family and friends.

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DON’T: Avoid going to a barber, salon, or any other such high-touch non-essential services. Even if you are planning to go to a health care facility, don’t. Unless it’s absolutely necessary. One of the biggest concerns right now is that the health care system will get overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases. Cancel all appointments because even if a location looks vacant now, the virus could still be around on surfaces and objects.

 

 


  1. Re-evaluate priorities 


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DO: There is no shame in prioritising your health. However, it is a good idea to avoid any drastic workouts or diets that may hinder your immune system. It is also recommended to separate your utensils or drinking glasses from others, including family members because even if someone is not showing symptoms, you cannot rule out the fact that they can still infect others. Better be safe than sorry!

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DON’T: Please do not think this is a time to arrange family functions, meet friends, or even stay outdoors unnecessarily. It is recommended to stay six feet away from others because respiratory droplets emitted from a person’s nose or mouth by coughing, sneezing, and other activities can travel up to six feet in distance. It's just not about self-safety, it's about being a responsible citizen.

 

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