We’re familiar with information on how to avoid catching the coronavirus. But with the number of positive cases rising everyday, we should also be prepared for the possibility of us or our loved ones becoming infected. If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are suspected of having it, here are the precautions that should be done to protect you and those around you.
1. Remain quarantined at home.
The best way to make sure that you do not infect others with the virus is to keep yourself quarantined. If you live with others, stay inside your room for two weeks and keep the things you regularly use away from those used by others. If you are the assigned errands person, have someone else take over your tasks. Practise frequent handwashing and sanitation. Observe your symptoms closely.
2. Do not practice self-medication.
Do not attempt to treat symptoms such as fever and cough with the usual medicine on your own. Always seek the advice of medical professionals before taking any medication. These medicines may be ineffective against the COVID-19.
3. Seek medical consultation through phone.
The Department of Health has launched a 24/7 telemedicine hotline for people requiring medical advice, whether or not it is for COVID-19 concerns. This is to dissuade people from heading directly to hospitals where viral transmission is highly probable. You may contact this hotline through (02) 8424-1724 for free. Another option is KonsultaMD which you could contact through 79-880 toll-free (for Globe or TM users) or 02-7798-8000 from any landline. Please note that KonsultaMD could be subject to additional fees.
4. Update your community’s health authorities of your status.
Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs) are tasked to track the health status of persons under monitoring (PUMs) and patients under investigation (PUIs) within their community. These teams are made up of nurses and community doctors who could prescribe medication.
5. Seek hospital care if deemed necessary.
Most COVID-19 cases only experience mild symptoms which do not necessarily require staying in the hospital. However, if you feel that your symptoms are worsening, consult with medical professionals through telemedicine hotlines. This could determine if you need to head to the hospital for closer monitoring and treatment. If you experience the following symptoms, consider seeking hospital care. – Difficulty in breathing – Increased drowsiness or decreased wakefulness – Signs of dehydration – Worsening fever and cough with no signs of easing
