COVID-19: Caring for a sick person at home? Follow these precautions

Self-isolation at home is possible if you follow basic guidelines

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3 MIN READ
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Do you have the new coronavirus but are showing no symptoms? Revised guidelines by health authorities allow asymptomatic COVID-19 patients to self-isolate at home or at a quarantine hotel.
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Read about the announcement here: gulfnews.com/1.71357350
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The decision was taken in coordination with the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NECDMA)
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Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
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Who can self-isolate? People who are asymptomatic can self-isolate at home or at a hotel specifically for quarantine.
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Also, those with mild symptoms but no comorbidities can self-isolate at home or at a hotel.
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Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
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If a person is mildly symptomatic but falls under the vulnerable category, they are advised to check in to a quarantine hotel room.
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If you are caring for someone at home who has tested positive for COVID-19, follow these guidelines.
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These guidelines have been issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and US's Centre for Disease Control (CDC)
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As the patient is showing no symptoms, or is mildly symptomatic, it is important to support them with the right diet and medication, as advised by their doctor.
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You can also help them with their daily chores, like grocery shopping or getting their medicines delivered.
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If they have a pet, it is best to not let them be in close contact.
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It is also important to keep a close eye on any changes in symptoms or the patient's health. Be in regular contact with the doctors or health authorities.
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How can you keep yourself safe while caring for a COVID-19 patient?
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Ideally, the care giver should be someone who does not fall under the vulnerable category. It is best to avoid contact as much as possible with the patient.
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The patient should stay within their room and if possible, provide them with a room with an attached bathroom.
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If it is not possible to avoid contact, ensure that the shared spaces are well-ventilated.
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Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
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It is also important to ensure high standards of hygiene and disinfection.
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Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly and do not share utensils or gadgets with the person who is sick.
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Always use a liner for dustbins and practice care when handling or disposing garbage.
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If the sick person is stepping out, he or she needs to wear a face mask.
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Picture used for illustrative purposes.
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If you have to enter the patient's room, make sure you both are wearing masks.
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It is important to not touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. To read a detailed guide on how to disinfect your home, visit: gulfnews.com/1.1585838850172
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Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
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In case it is not possible to wash your hands, use a hand sanitiser.
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How to clean the bedroom and bathroom - it is best to use a separate bathroom for the sick person.
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If the sick person is asymptomatic and is able to, it is best that they clean their own space.
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If you are sharing a bathroom it should be cleaned after each use.
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Washing clothes - handle laundry with care.
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Wash clothes using the warmest appropriate water setting.
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It is also important to disinfect your laundry basket and then wash your hands.
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As a caregiver, it is important that you also ensure you stay healthy.

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