Australia has witnessed one lakh plus cases of Coronavirus with a thousand plus deaths as of October 23, 2021. Meanwhile, even though the continent is small in comparison, its Covid-19 prevention is an outstanding solution for other continents to look at. The Australian government took preventive measures, including staying at home and social distancing throughout these two years, and it helped reduce the further spread of the virus. And there are travel restrictions in the country for now which are subject to change very soon. Also, the government asked people to use PPE kits, Australian made face masks and sanitisers to avoid the risk of contracting the virus.
So, is it possible to use these preventive measures if a family member tests positive for Covid-19? Read on to know more about how to protect loved ones and the self in this situation.
1. Immediate Physical Distancing
If any family member tests positive for Covid-19, the person should avoid going to public places. Staying home is a must and allotting them a particular room away from other family members is necessary. Meanwhile, the room should have good airflow and, if possible, facilities like an air conditioner. It is better if the room is bath attached, and also, they must use quality protection tools like Australian made face masks to avoid the spread of the virus while interacting with others. Meanwhile, it may seem complicated for large families to follow these measures, but there is no option other than following the protocol. Also, make sure that there is no chance for visitors or outsiders to enter the house even if it is an essential need.
2. Restrict the Spread
If the member is already infected, the next step to remember is the significance of maintaining personal hygiene. It is essential to use a tissue or towel while sneezing or coughing. And, do not forget to throw this tissue in a closed dustbin. Wash hands immediately after having contact with people, pets, infected surfaces and the restroom. And use soap and water and wash for at least twenty seconds. Meanwhile, if soap is not available, sanitise the hands with a sixty per cent alcohol-containing sanitiser.
Other family members should remember to disinfect the surfaces they touch like light switches, tables, phones, sink, toilets, doorknobs, remote controls and handles. For cleaning the surface, use soap or detergents. Diluted household bleach is also a good option for disinfection. Besides, never share household items during this time. Use separate towels, dishes and bedding and if there is an emergency that necessitates sharing, use gloves.
3. Monitor the Members of the Family
Use the Health helpline numbers of the government if other family members start to show any severe symptoms of Covid-19. It is a medical emergency if the person has trouble breathing, has a bluish face, pressure in the chest or persistent pain in the body, etc. Symptoms are different from person to person, and this list is not inclusive. So, if the symptoms are concerning, contact the medical authorities immediately.
4. Home Isolation
As mentioned earlier, home isolation is one of the essential methods to restrict the spread of the virus. But, when to end it?
If the infected person does not have fever for three whole days or other symptoms of Covid-19 like shortness of breath or cough, it is time to end the isolation. Also, calculate the days from which the symptoms first appeared. If it is seven days, the person can stop home isolation. Moreover, get a test done immediately to assure that there is no further spread.
Follow the protocols strictly and use every safety measure like wearing a KN95 mask Australia to help the world fight against Coronavirus. This dire time too shall pass!
