By Cheryne Fourdrigniez
It’s no question that fake news has been spiralling out of control here, there and everywhere. One thing is certain though, and that is that everyone needs to prepare themselves for the dreaded Covid-19.
According to a leaked government document, it is suggested that 80% of the UK population could potentially catch the virus. That’s why being well prepared both mentally and physically is the way forward, if we really want to beat the virus.
Here are a few basic steps you can follow towards health and recovery:
1. Only follow advice given by the government, WHO and NHS.
“If you can hold your breath for 10 seconds, then you don’t have the virus,” “The virus spreads through petrol pumps.” Are any of those familiar? You may have received WhatsApp messages from well-meaning friends or family urging you to follow necessary steps if you don’t want to catch the virus. Truth is, fake news is everywhere, and you should only be listening to advice given by the government, WHO and NHS. They know best!
- https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
- www.gov.uk/coronavirus
“I personally fell victim to believing all this fake news, which can be overwhelming because you panic and then it’s unhealthy,” says 47-year-old shop owner, Ilham Najim.
2. Stock up ahead of time
No, that doesn’t mean panic buying or stocking up on toilet paper rolls. Instead, it’s important to prepare for an unpleasant bug. Basic over the counter drugs like paracetamol, cough medicine, and Vicks VapoRub will become your best friend!
3. Hydration is key
Now is the time to stock up on all your favourite fluids because staying hydrated is crucial so drink, drink, drink! Water is obviously fine, but you may want to jazz it up with some flavour. We recommend sport drinks like Gatorade or Vitamin Water as they usually have electrolytes which are great for replenishing any lost fluids.
“I have a really weak immune system, so I get ill quite often, I usually always have a stock of the Dyoralyte, because it’s so easy to run your body down to the point of dehydration,” says 23-year-old Rianna Millar.
4. Meal prep
You don’t know when or if you’ll be catching the virus but if you do, it’s nice to know that you won’t have to make any effort to cook. If you want to be able to fight off the virus, it’s important to eat a healthy diet consisting of all the necessary nutrients so that your body can do its work! With so much free time in your hands, we urge you to take this time to cook some easy to eat meals consisting of all the right vitamins, proteins and all things that your body will thank you for!
Your grandmother’s trusty chicken soup recipe has come in handier after all! (Don’t go knocking on her door, stay home!)
5. Sleep
It’s true that sleep can heal your body. Getting a good night’s sleep is equally as important as exercising and eating well. According to the Sleep Foundation, getting those 8 hours of sleep helps contribute to a healthy immune system. So, let your body do its work and fight the virus whilst you dream away! (Zzzz)
Please note that this is by no means professional medical advice but if you do require any medical help, use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do.
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