How to protect yourself from coronavirus: 10 simple tips

Chinese coronavirus 2019-nCoV continues to spread around the world. On January 29, the number of infected people reached the 6 thous. man. In Russia, no confirmed cases of the disease have been recorded, but nevertheless, everyone should know about the methods of protection. Here are 10 simple but very important precautions to take when you are at risk of infection.

1. Wear gloves or mittens when you leave the house. Do not remove them on subways, buses, and public places.

2. If you need to take off your gloves to, for example, have lunch, do not touch your face or eyes with your hands, even if something itches. Avoid any contact between hands and head. And before putting on your gloves again, wash your hands with soap and warm water, rubbing each finger.

3. Change gloves daily, wash them thoroughly and dry them well.

4. A medical mask does not protect well indoors and is practically useless outdoors. And using the same mask day after day turns it into a breeding ground for bacteria. Don't rely on her to protect you. It is better to avoid crowds and do not approach strangers on the street - keep a distance of at least half a meter. In the case of loved ones and acquaintances, exclude handshakes, hugs and any close contact.

5. At home, be sure to replace all towels in the bathroom and kitchen. Bring new clean ones so that each family member has their own personal towel. Wash them twice a week and dry well.

6. Be careful with doorknobs. If possible, open and close doors using your elbows or shoulders. Wear gloves if you need to turn the handle. If done without gloves, be sure to wash your hands after each such contact. Also, avoid touching stair railings, desks, other people's gadgets, toys, and personal belongings.

7. If you are sharing food with someone, do not use your personal cutlery and utensils. Each dish on the table should have its own fork or spoon to place on the plate. Everyone should have their own personal devices. Wash all dishes thoroughly after eating. Children should also be prohibited from drinking from other people's cups.

8. Do not buy or eat raw animal meat and fish until it is known which species is the source of the virus.

9. If weather permits, open windows at home to let air out. The virus cannot linger in a well-ventilated area. Do the same at work.

10. If you have to care for a sick person, wear a tight-fitting medical mask - everyone in your home should have one, including the infected. Use latex gloves and long sleeves. Constantly rinse all dishes and objects with which the patient came into contact. Personal hygiene products after use must be packed in sealed plastic bags, and only then put into the trash can. The patient is recommended to be isolated in a separate room, which is important to periodically ventilate.

These tips published on the ForeignPolicy website and compiled for Chinese residents. However, in fact, they will be relevant in any country where there is a threat of coronavirus infection. Now such countries already more than 15.