COVID-19

COVID-19 

Finally, some sensible advice from a Nurse

“What I have seen a lot of are recommendations for how to try to avoid getting coronavirus in the first place -- good hand washing, personal hygiene and social distancing -- but what I have NOT seen a lot of is advice for what happens if you actually get it.

So as your friendly neighborhood Nurse let me make some suggestions:

You basically just want to prepare as though you know you’re going to get a nasty respiratory bug, like bronchitis or pneumonia. Just have the foresight to know it ‘might’ come your way!

1.    Things you should actually buy ahead of time (not sure what the obsession with toilet paper is?):

- Kleenex,

- Paracetamol,

- whatever your generic, mucus thinning cough medicine of choice is (check the label and make sure you're not doubling up on Paracetamol)

- Honey and lemon can work just as well!    

-  Vick vaporub for your chest is also a great suggestion.

2.   If you don’t have a humidifier, that would be a good thing to buy and use in your room when you go to bed overnight. (You can also just turn the shower on hot and sit in the bathroom breathing in the steam).

3.   If you have a history of asthma and you have a prescription inhaler, make sure the one you have isn’t expired and refill it/get a new one if necessary.

4.   This is also a good time to meal prep: make a big batch of your favorite soup to freeze and have on hand.

5.   Stock up on whatever  your favorite clear fluids are to drink - though plain water is fine you may appreciate some variety!

SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT:  

1.    If you have a fever over 38°c, take Paracetamol rather than Ibuprofen.

2.    Hydrate (drink!) hydrate, hydrate! 

3.    Rest lots. You should not be leaving your house!  Even if you are feeling better you may will still be infectious for fourteen days and older people and those with existing health conditions should be avoided!

4.    Ask friends and family to leave supplies outside to avoid contact.  

You may not NEED TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL unless you are having trouble breathing or your fever is very high (over 39°C) and unmanaged with meds. 90% of healthy adult cases thus far have been managed at home with basic rest/hydration/over-the-counter meds.

BUT CALL:  080097000010

Wherever you are in Nigeria, That’s the number to call,

IF you suspect any Coronavirus.

It is toll-free, no charges.

and they will advise if you need to go to hospital.  

EXISTING MEDICAL ISSUES

If you have a pre-existing lung condition (COPD, emphysema, lung cancer) or are on immunosuppressants, now is a great time to talk to your Doctor or specialist about what they would like you to do if you get sick. 

CHILD MANAGEMENT:  It has been found that kids usually bounce back in a few days if exposed to the virus (but they will still be infectious), Just use pediatric dosing and call the emergency number.

Be calm and prepare rationally and everything will be fine.  

Above all pray that God should take control and protect you above all physical protection.

Share this as it's great advice!"