The recent Wuhan Virus Outbreak has caused panic and fears in many of us with global confirmed cases over 6,000 at the time of writing (Source: CNA). Singapore government has taken preventive measures such as travel restrictions and quarantine orders to specific group of travellers (Source: CNA). Read on to find out the top 3 Dos and Don’ts during the Wuhan Virus Outbreak:
1. Practice Good Personal Hygiene
As the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Singapore increases, doctors have urged members of public to observe proper hygiene practices such as wearing masks and proper hand washing (Source: CNA).
Surgical mask is recommended instead of N95 mask as it can prevent transmission from others to you and from you to others. When worn, the mask should cover the nose and mouth and rest on the chin, with the coloured side facing out. You can use the mask up to 8 hours if it is unsoiled with proper keeping in a bag without deforming it.
Proper hand washing is also recommended by the doctors with the use of anti-bacterial and alcohol-based soaps, especially when coming into contact with common exchanged items such as money and utensils, and items such as handrails and lift buttons. Proper hand washing means washing hands for at least 30 seconds with soap and water, includes cleaning between fingers, the base of thumbs and fingernails. If there is no soap available, using hand sanitisers is equally effective in breaking down the grease and dirt that carry most germs.
2. Do Not Anyhow Share Unverified News or Whatsapp Message
Source: https://www.gov.sg/article/wuhan-virus-clarifications
There are a lot of news, images and videos that were being shared on various social media platforms as everyone is concerned on the latest update of the Wuhan Virus. When you have received such messages, you should refrain to just blindly sharing and spreading the news on your social media accounts. It could have been malicious rumours and fake news. Your rash action will cause unnecessary anxiety, panic and fear in public. Remember, if you are not sure, don’t spread or share it. Always refer to the official sources to keep abreast of the situation!
3. Do Not Panic, Be Resilient Instead
While it is scary that how fast the Wuhan Virus spread across all continents, we should not be panic! In this time of adversity we should be resilient, as hokkien saying “Ai Zai” which means calm down. Being panic does not help with the situation, instead it could have affected your logical thinking. In addition, necessary preventive measures have been taken by Singapore authorities to control the spread of the virus which give assurances to the member of public.
Resilience is what gives people the psychological strength to cope with stress and hardship. It is the mental reservoir of strength that people are able to call on in times of need to carry them through without falling apart.
