Running away from news about COVID-19, or the disease caused by the transmission of the novel coronavirus (novel coronavirus), or what is commonly referred to simply as the coronavirus may be impossible, and it's natural for you to feel worried as a result. As the number of countries affected by it increases, chances are that you are currently busy preparing yourself in case a similar problem befalls the neighborhood you live in. Even though it sounds terrible, there's no need to panic if until now, there have been no confirmed cases by the government in your area. However, stay alert by following the guidelines recommended by both the Indonesian government and the World Health Organization (WHO) to minimize the transmission of this disease.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Preventing Virus Spread
Step 1. Get vaccinated
If it's available to you, join the COVID-19 vaccination program. Several types of vaccines have been approved for emergency use in Indonesia and around the world. The COVID-19 vaccination in Indonesia is divided into 4 stages, taking into account the availability and arrival time of the vaccine. In general, health workers, public service workers, and elderly people who are at higher risk will get the vaccine first.
- Some of the vaccines that have been approved for emergency use in Indonesia are vaccines made by Sinovac, Sinopharm, AstraZeneca, Moderna, and Pfizer. Currently, you can even monitor vaccine availability through the Vaccine Allocation page on the Indonesian Ministry of Health website.
- Most likely, you will not be able to choose what vaccine you will receive and when you will receive the vaccine because of its limited availability. However, the use of the vaccine has shown good protection against COVID-19 infection in trials and greatly reduces the chances of you developing severe symptoms and being hospitalized.
Step 2. Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
Although it sounds simple, actually washing your hands is the best way to protect yourself from disease! To do this, you just need to wet your hands with warm running water, then pour enough soap into your palms. Rub hands for 20 seconds, then rinse thoroughly.
Hand sanitizer that contains alcohol can also help kill viruses. However, make sure you are only using it as a complement to, not a substitute for, your hand washing method
Step 3. Do physical distancing by staying at home as much as possible
Viruses are easier to spread in crowds and crowds. Luckily, you can help protect yourself and others by staying at home. Only leave the house when absolutely necessary, such as shopping for daily necessities. Otherwise, just enjoy your time at home.
- If you are at high risk and have family members who still have to work outside the home, you should take extra care and limit contact with them for your own safety.
- If you decide to socialize with other people, try limiting the number of guests at your event to 10 people or less. Remember, even young and healthy people can catch the virus and pass it on to others. Pay attention to the rules your city or province has in place to find out what events are currently allowed.
- There are so many ways to have fun at home! You can play a game, make something, read a book, exercise in the yard, or just watch a movie.
Step 4. Maintain a minimum distance of 1.5-2 m from other people while in public places
Every now and then you may still have to go out to public places such as shopping. Try to keep your distance from other people just in case you get sick. COVID-19 can be contagious before symptoms appear. So, for the sake of mutual safety, keep your distance!
Step 5. Try not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth
The direct form of transmission of the new corona virus is when the patient's phlegm or mucus hits you. Meanwhile, there is also indirect transmission, namely when you accidentally touch the phlegm or snot, then touch your face afterwards. That's why, don't touch your face if you haven't washed your hands so that any germs or viruses that are lodged in your hands don't transfer to your body!
If possible, always use a tissue to wipe your nose or cover your mouth when you cough, especially since your hands can get dirty
Step 6. Avoid shaking hands with other people, both healthy and sick
Unfortunately, people who are infected with the corona virus can spread the disease even though they don't appear to have symptoms. Therefore, it is best not to shake hands with anyone until the threat of COVID-19 is over. Try to politely decline the other person's helping hand.
For example, you clasped your hands in front of your chest while smiling. In a situation like this, that person should be able to understand the reason
Step 7. Keep your distance from people who are sneezing or coughing
Even if they don't necessarily have COVID-19, it's best if you don't take risks and keep your distance from people who are showing symptoms of a respiratory infection. Politely and not in a hurry, keep yourself away from people who are coughing or sneezing.
If the two of you are having a conversation, politely withdraw. For example, you might say, “You're coughing, aren't you? Duh, I hope you get well soon, okay? I'm really sorry I have to keep my distance a bit because I don't want to be infected."
Tip:
Although the new corona virus first appeared in Wuhan, China, it does not mean that the virus has associations with Asian people! Unfortunately, currently many people of Asian descent are reported to have experienced racial violence and harassment as a result of being associated with the corona virus. Remember, the virus has spread to other parts of the world and can infect anyone. Therefore, always treat others politely and fairly!
Step 8. Clean the objects you will touch, both in public and at home
Although the Ministry of Health has yet to issue official instructions on this topic, it's a good idea to maximize cleanliness in your home, workplace, and public places. The trick, you can spray disinfectant on a hard surface or wipe it with a wet tissue. Whenever possible, also spray soft surfaces with a suitable disinfectant.
- For example, spray Lisol onto countertops, guardrail surfaces, and doorknobs. Alternatively, you can also use a bleach such as Bayclin to clean hard surfaces.
- Lysol can also be applied to soft surfaces.
- If you prefer to use natural cleaning agents, try using vinegar.
Step 9. Wear a surgical mask only if recommended by a doctor or if you are sick
In fact, the current use of surgical masks is prioritized to protect health workers. However, if you have a cough or runny nose, be sure to wear a mask so that the splashes of your coughs and sneezes don't infect others, and stay at home.
There is no need to buy a surgical mask on the grounds of “just in case”. In fact, this behavior will reduce the supply of surgical masks on the market, making it even more difficult for people and health workers who need them more to buy them
Tip:
The BNPB's Task Force for the Acceleration of Handling Covid-19 recently advised everyone to wear a cloth mask during activities in public places and interacting with other people.
Method 2 of 4: Keeping Food Stocks at Home
Step 1. Fill the pantry and freezer with food that can meet your needs for 2-4 weeks
If you can't get out of the house because you are sick or the infection is spreading, of course traveling to the market or supermarket is impossible. That's why, you need to buy enough food stocks to fill the kitchen and refrigerator for the next few weeks.
- Buy canned foods such as sardines, and other foods that have a long shelf life.
- Buy frozen foods like meat, bread, etc. which can be stored for a long time and can be softened whenever it is consumed.
- For those of you who are diligent in consuming milk, try buying powdered milk which has a longer shelf life than liquid milk, especially in case you can't leave the house for a while.
- Don't stop cooking healthy food during a pandemic! Fresh ingredients can also be frozen and added to your cooking at a later time. Or, opt for canned or frozen vegetables with minimal additives. Keeping healthy cereals in the kitchen is also great for making healthy dishes.
Do you know?
If a new corona virus infection has infected an area, the government may advise you and everyone in the area to stay at home and avoid crowds. Social distancing is effective in preventing the virus from spreading to a wider area.
Step 2. Purchase extra daily essentials such as toilet paper, soap and detergent
If the potential contagion begins to touch the area where you live, or if your neighbor has tested positive for the new coronavirus, you will most likely not be able to leave the house for several weeks. To deal with this possibility, don't forget to buy various daily necessities in slightly more quantities than usual, or which will be able to meet your needs for one month. Some items that need to be purchased in larger quantities:
- Tissues that are large enough to cover the nose and mouth area when sneezing or coughing
- Dish soap
- Hand soap
- Kitchen tissue
- Toilet paper
- Laundry detergent
- Hygiene kits
- Sanitary napkins
- Bathroom fixtures
- Baby diapers
- Pet needs
Tip:
Don't stock up on essentials at home! Remember, other people also need the same product to maintain their health and safety. Therefore, just buy items that can meet your needs for a maximum of 2 weeks.
Step 3. Purchase over-the-counter medications commonly used to treat respiratory infections
Although there is no cure for the new corona virus infection, the symptoms can be relieved with the help of over-the-counter medicines to treat respiratory infections. For example, you can buy a pack of decongestants, acetaminophen (Panadol), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve). Or, you can also buy cough syrups and other forms of cough medicine to reduce the intensity of coughing.
If you have a large number of family members, try buying several packs of medicine at once just in case more than one person gets sick. Ask your doctor for recommendations regarding the most appropriate amount of medicine, yes
Step 4. Prepare medicines to meet your medical needs for at least 30 days
If you have to take medicine every day, try to consult the doctor about the possibility of keeping a large stock of medicine, just in case you can't get out of the house until the threat of the corona virus subsides. At least, prepare medicine stock for the next 30 days!
- In particular, you may need to make up half a prescription every week or two to keep it in stock for 30 days.
- Discuss these options with your doctor and ask for a recommendation that best suits your needs.
Method 3 of 4: Preparing for the Closure of Offices and Educational Institutions
Step 1. Plan child care patterns if schools and daycares stop operating temporarily
If the transmission of the corona virus begins to enter the area where you live, it is very likely that various public places will be closed to prevent a wider spread. If you also work, the situation will certainly feel difficult. Therefore, start developing a treatment plan for your child ahead of time so that you don't panic if this situation occurs.
- For example, you can enlist the help of relatives to look after the children if the school or daycare is not operating. Or, you can also ask your boss for permission to work from home so you can look after your children without the help of a third party.
- Children may be watching TV and using the computer longer than usual. Schedule new routines and help them choose the right shows and movies to watch.
Step 2. Discuss the possibility of working from home with your boss in the office
While there's no need to worry too much, working from home is a wise choice if transmission of the coronavirus begins to enter your area of residence, especially since most public places will probably be closed to prevent the virus from spreading. To prepare yourself before the situation occurs, don't forget to discuss the possibility of working from home with your boss. In particular, discuss the types of work that can be done at home, as well as your future work patterns and hours.
- You can say, “I see that there are already several companies that allow their employees to work from home, especially in areas affected by the corona virus, such as in Jakarta. If a similar situation occurs here, I hope to get your permission to work from home. Can we discuss these options?”
- Working from home, unfortunately, is not an option that may be lived by everyone. However, there is nothing wrong with preparing yourself to undergo these options if you have work to do at home.
Step 3. Find information about local organizations that are willing to provide financial support for people who have lost their income due to the transmission of the corona virus
If your profession doesn't allow you to work from home, then how do you meet your daily financial needs in the future? Unfortunately, not all companies are willing to provide benefits for employees who are laid off due to the potential for contracting the corona virus in their area. Since there is no official policy from the central government or local governments regarding compensation for employees who are forced to be laid off, try to find information about local organizations or NGOs that are willing to provide donations or financial assistance, such as those available in the United States today.
- Local religious organizations may also be able to provide financial assistance and assistance to people in need.
- Try not to worry too much. Remember, the true possibility of transmission afflicts everyone in the world, and rest assured that the local community will not mind reaching out if you test positive for COVID-19.
Method 4 of 4: Enriching Information and Keeping Calm
Step 1. Read the latest information regarding the new coronavirus, at least once a day
Since the Ministry of Health and WHO provide new information every day, there is no harm in checking the information to suppress unwarranted fears and protect yourself from possible transmission. However, reading the news too often also has the potential to increase these fears, try to do these actions only once a day.
- The latest information from WHO can be checked on this page:
- Remember, so far your chances of getting infected with the new corona virus in Indonesia are still quite low. Therefore, try to remain calm.
Tip:
Because most people are engulfed in ironic, sometimes unwarranted fears, even inaccurate information can easily spread across the internet. To avoid unnecessary panic, make sure you only read information or news from trusted sources! In addition, always verify the news you receive by checking the website of the Ministry of Health or WHO.
Step 2. Make a plan related to the safety of your family
This method is worth applying to help you to be calmer in dealing with the corona virus. In addition, your children may also have a million questions related to the virus. Therefore, to help prepare yourself and your closest relatives, try to invite them to discuss various ways you can live well in the midst of possible transmission of the corona virus. Some things you can do:
- Reassure all family members that the supply of food and other supplies at home is still sufficient until now.
- Reassure your children that you are always ready to take care of them, no matter what the circumstances.
- Give ideas on how to spend time at home when the corona virus begins to enter the area where you live.
- Distribute emergency numbers to all family members.
- Provide an “isolation room” or special treatment room at home to accommodate sick family members.
Step 3. Improve your lifestyle to strengthen your immune system
Since there is no specific cure for the new coronavirus infection, your immune system will be the first line of defense that it needs to penetrate. Fortunately, the immune system can always be improved by improving your lifestyle. For that, try to consult a lifestyle that is in line with your needs to the doctor. Some things you can try:
- Eat fresh vegetables or fruit at every meal.
- Exercise 30 minutes for at least 5 days a week.
- Take a multivitamin if permitted by your doctor.
- Sleep 7-9 hours every night.
- Relieves stress.
- Do not smoke.
- Get vaccinated against influenza, if you haven't already.
Step 4. Call your doctor if you are concerned about your symptoms
Although not all symptoms of the disease are caused by a corona virus infection, take it seriously! If you experience symptoms such as fever, cough, and respiratory problems, immediately contact a doctor to detect the presence or absence of a corona virus infection in your body. Before contacting a doctor, do not travel anywhere to reduce the risk of spreading. After that, the doctor will take a sample of the specimen to be examined in the laboratory and confirm your diagnosis.
- Do not go to a hospital or clinic without informing them beforehand that you may be infected with the coronavirus. Chances are, you will have to be isolated from other patients and placed in your own room. Or, your doctor may ask you to stay home or stay in the vehicle.
- If you are infected with the coronavirus, you may be allowed to self-quarantine at home. However, if your doctor suspects you are at risk for complications, you may need to be hospitalized.
Step 5. Check travel warnings before traveling and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary
Experts are advising people to avoid unnecessary travel to help reduce the spread of the virus. Even if you must travel, check all necessary warnings and requirements, especially during the implementation of community activity restrictions (PPKM).
- Note, high risk people should not travel for a while. Seniors, people with co-morbidities, or those with immunodeficiency should not travel unless absolutely necessary to reduce the risk of infection.
- If the worry doesn't go away, there's nothing wrong with delaying departure and asking for a refund, if possible. Check whether this option exists or not with the company that serves your ticket sales.
Tips
- Try not to panic. Pandemics are scary, but you really don't have to be afraid to react to them.
- If you have stockpiled basic necessities during this pandemic, you can donate the excess to those in need.
- Treat everyone well! Don't assume that everyone of Asian descent has COVID-19. Remember, the new corona virus has spread to about 67 countries so it is not associated with certain races. Also, don't assume everyone who is coughing is a COVID-19 sufferer!
- Remember that you only need to be physically distanced, not socially distant. Keep in touch with your friends and family whether by phone or video call like FaceTime and Zoom.
