Safety isn’t just about protecting valuable items from theft or knowing where your loved ones are right now. It’s also about looking after your own health and that of others. How can you take care of your immunity in the face of the COVID-19 coronavirus?
The most common ways the virus spreads
- Many familiar illnesses are spread by airborne droplets – and the coronavirus is no exception. Chickenpox, measles, rubella, flu and tonsillitis all often start with someone sneezing or coughing on another person.
- Direct contact with an infected person – kissing, sexual contact and even closer touch such as hugging can be risky if you’re not sure the person is fully healthy.
Look after your immunity
Older people and those weakened by other conditions are more vulnerable to an aggressive attack by the virus. That’s why it’s important, especially now, to take care of the following:
- sleep – an exhausted body is a body prone to illness. 8 hours of sleep is the optimal amount. While you sleep, the number of lymphocytes in your body increases – the white blood cells responsible for protecting you against infections;
- cutting down on stimulants – alcohol and cigarettes work against the beneficial effects of vitamins. They spite them by reducing their absorption;
- physical activity – ideally at least 3 times a week for half an hour;
- a proper diet – a healthy gut means a healthy body! Treats such as beetroot, pickled cucumbers and sauerkraut inhibit the growth of pathogens and stimulate immunity. Make sure natural yoghurt, honey and soups are on the menu too.
- take vitamin D – at a time when we’re advised to limit trips outside, this vitamin will help your body feel as if it’s been out in the sun.
Frequent washing lengthens your life!
Not everyone can afford complete isolation. At work, on the tram or even at home, we’re surrounded by other people. As you already know, through coughing, sneezing and even touching “shared” surfaces (stair rails, door handles, device keypads), the virus can be passed to us – or the other way round: you yourself could infect someone. So cover your mouth when you sneeze, yawn or cough – ideally with your elbow.
Remember that the virus multiplies fastest in the respiratory tract – your nose and throat. It may also take an interest in the area around your eyes and settle into your body that way. So don’t touch your face without washing your hands first!
While we’re on the subject of washing your hands – of course we use soap and lather it for at least 30 seconds, not forgetting the fingertips and wrists.
When must you always wash your hands?
- after using the toilet,
- after arriving at work or home,
- before eating.
You don’t have to start a stopwatch every time to count out 30 seconds. Just hum the chorus of Bajm’s Biała armia 😀
Above all, stay calm
A stressed body is also more susceptible to infection. When you live under constant tension, the cooperation between your nervous system and your immune system is disrupted. Make sure you have a moment just for yourself: for your passions and interests. Limit the news about the epidemic. It’s natural to want to stay up to date, but constantly surrounding yourself with alarming information only fuels panic. Remember to get your information from reliable, verified sources such as the government’s coronavirus website, WHO updates or the Ministry of Health’s page.
