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Tag: Coronavirus

Getting Eight Hours of Solid and Uninterrupted Sleep: Challenges Brought During Quarantine

The coronavirus pandemic has shaken the world by changing the social construct of our work, school and lifestyle. For quite some time, we’ve been forced inside the four walls of the house for safety measures, and this has taken a toll on one’s mental and physical health. Some of us are guilty of binge-eating while watching twelve hours of TV re-runs. Others turn into social media for some form of entertainment and anxiety-riddled scenarios.

Whatever the situations may be, the quarantine period brought these changes to our lives. Increased screen time, inactivity, frequent alcohol drinking, and abnormal meal time severely disrupted one’s sleep schedule. If you’re struggling to get some quality snooze, here’s what you can do.

Exercise and Move Your Body

The more you exercise, the more you’re body asks for sleep. Although gyms are closed, you can take advantage of the exercise resources posted on the internet to guide your movements. In fact, you can start dancing, yoga, in-house boxing, and more. One should know that the more sedentary a person gets, the more fragmented your sleep quality is. So, moving your body till you break a sweat is an excellent strategy to sleep well.

Minimize Alcohol Intake

We know how this quarantine period can urge somebody to binge-drink while watching the TV and other nonsensical activities. However, as cliché as this may seem, too much of a good thing is a bad thing. Alcohol intake disrupts circadian rhythm. How does it affect your sleep? Alcohol makes you feel asleep rapidly, yet it wakes your body up instantly without getting enough sleep.

Regulate Meal Times

It can be quite tempting to order a full meal when you’re indulging yourself to a full-season of your favorite show. However, if you still call on a large pizza in the middle of the night, you’re risking your sleep quality and schedule. During those times that you’ve established a sleeping time, your body is accustomed to release melatonin two hours before you lay down. But, if you eat way too late, this throws you off your sleep routine.

Get Some Vitamin D

When it comes to establishing a healthy circadian rhythm, light is an essential matter. To cue your circadian rhythm, it needs the sunlight to trigger the cycle. When you’re someone who doesn’t greet the sun regularly, you’ll disrupt your circadian rhythm. If you want to get a good quality of sleep, envelop yourself to the warmth of the sun for a good 15-30 minutes and increase the amount of sunlight entering your home. You can do this by opening up the blinds, curtains and windows.

This quarantine period, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Manage your stress levels by exercising, eating nutritious foods and getting enough sleep. Although it is easier to fall into the trap of letting go and being glued to the sedentary life, breakaway and think of the long-term consequences. Don’t forget to keep in touch with family and friends as they can be your partners in health.

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August 24, 2020
Talking to Your Kids about Covid-19: Managing Stress and Expectations

This pandemic has shaken up our world. From the summer picnics to the trips to the beaches, it has been all for naught. What’s worse, our offices, schools, and institutions have been forced to a halt. With this in mind, one’s sense of security and health are being threatened.

For us adults, we have understood the gist of the pandemic. However, for our kids who may not have any idea about this current situation, it can be confusing and unbearable. So, how are we going to break this sad news to them? Follow our tips and tricks below.

Assess What They Know About the Pandemic

School’s out as early as one child can imagine. For some, this is a call to rejoice. But, for some, this isn’t as exciting as they want it to be. To measure how you’re going to approach the situation to your child, better ask them first what they know about it.

Some children would ask about it for a long, long time. In contrast, others don’t seem to be interested. If they know something about the virus, ask them, and correct them.

Provide Honesty and Reassuring Comfort

Following the child’s lead about the Covid-19 situation, answer whatever queries he may have, and answer with honesty. It is important to reiterate that all of the measures (if ever they ask about the masks, social distancing, and home quarantine) are for everyone’s safety. If they ask how everything is going to get solved, reassuringly tell them that everyone’s doing their part to make the virus go away.

Help Your Child Alleviate the Fear of Covid-19

Now’s the moment to emphasize the importance of healthy living and sanitation. To make your child feel in control and secured despite the situation, educate him about the importance of eating healthily, getting a good night’s sleep, and sanitizing their hands.

Make Their Routine Exciting and Entertaining

It can be quite a bummer to stay inside your home with no clear agenda of what to do or how to cope. Depending on your child’s age, this is an excellent time to exercise your parenting imagination and put it to the test. You can ask them to help you out on a chore, learn a new hobby with them, or watch a movie to know their preferences in multimedia arts.

Explain How They Can Make Every Family Member Safe

When you try to listen to how your kids react to the news, you’ll notice one wholehearted fact. They tend to worry more about others than themselves. They’ll ask questions of what happens if someone in the family gets infected, or what are the available options for treatment. If you know the answer, answer them with reassurance. If not, tell them honestly. In fact, you can even use the time to read articles together or to bond over something discoverable.

As a final note, every action you must do must be exercised with caution and compassion. Since kids may have a hard time understanding the pandemic and how grave the situation is, you need to understand that there’s a limit to how they react and respond to your questions and statements.

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July 22, 2020
What It’s Like to Suffer From Coronavirus

Since the number of cases regarding the novel coronavirus keeps on rising, we can only imagine how severe and dreadful the disease is. To give us an understanding of what happens if you’ve contracted the disease, here are real-life accounts from those who have experienced it.

Clay Bentley – Rome, Georgia

Considered as a person vulnerable to the disease, Bentley started feeling unwell on March 1 but didn’t get hospitalized until March 6. The reason for rushing into the emergency room? He couldn’t breathe, and he felt his body aching and weakening by the second that he couldn’t even stand.

After 11 days of being confined to the hospital, he was discharged by the doctors. Then, he has undergone 14-days of home quarantine in a separate room away from other family members.

Elizabeth Schneider – Washington

As the World Health Organization always reiterates, the Covid-19 exhibits flu-like symptoms. For Schneider’s case, she initially thought it was only the flu until other people that attended a party with her start contracting the flu. It was then that they were all diagnosed as positive for Covid-19.

Todd Herman – New York City

Much like Schneider’s case, Herman thought he was only recovering from flu, only to be devastated by the Covid-19. The biggest telltale of his disease was his shortness of breath. Even when he was only walking from one side of his apartment to another, he would run out of breath.

Aside from the flu-like symptoms, he would also suffer from headaches and mild fatigue. In an interview, Herman told the news, “I can see why this would be very deadly.”

Carl Goldman – Passenger of Diamond Cruise Ship

What started as a fever later accompanied shortness of breath and dry cough. Because of his situation, he was admitted into a biocontainment unit. There, doctors took good care of him. After ten days inside a biocontainment unit, Goldman was moved to a different facility to which he became part of a clinical study.

Anonymous – Scotland

For a 50-year old Scottish man, he felt fine until there was an onset of flu. As the flu worsens, he felt chills, then body pains, particularly on his legs. Since he hasn’t undergone swab testing, the symptoms developed into a cough and shortness of breath.

Because of his symptoms, he was admitted into a hospital and spent a few days in the facility. After he recovered, he took another swab test to which resulted in negative.

Final Notes

As the world continues to face the devastation of this pandemic, let us follow health protocols such as: wearing face masks, increased handwashing and sanitation, and physical distancing. Also, avoid getting out of the house if the transaction isn’t necessary to avoid contact with people.

Although it is an unfortunate situation, we must always remember to prioritize our health first. No amount can compensate for a lost life compared to temporary pleasures. Protect your family and loved ones by following health protocols at all times.

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July 5, 2020
Why You Need to Wear Face Masks Against Covid-19
As coronavirus cases continue to rise, various health agencies such as the Department of Health advises the public to use face masks. Now that the “new normal” is settling in, people can roam around, continue working and do other essential tasks without much restriction. Because of this, there is an increase in physical interactions that defeats the purpose of a quarantine period.

Since the economic status of the country is at its all-time low and every constituent is at risk of hunger, local government unit heads allow the operation of essential services. With this in mind, local leaders urge the public to wear masks as a precaution against the virus.

Why Wearing Face Masks Minimize Virus Transmission

Coronavirus is spread by saliva droplets of mucus through coughing, sneezing and speaking. If you want to protect yourself from the possible transmission, you must wear a face mask that covers your mouth and nose.

More so, face masks protect you in places where social distancing can be an issue. For example, public markets, grocery stores, pharmacies and other areas require you to wear a mask as a safety precaution since you’ll be in contact with people.

Do I Need Medical-Grade Masks?

If you have cloth masks that you can insert an additional layer of tissue, this is considered by medical authorities as to the best option for the general public. Medical frontliners should utilize surgical masks, N-95, respirators and other medical-grade masks as they are at high risk of exposure to the virus.

What if I Don’t Wear a Face Mask?

By not wearing a face mask, you’re exposing yourself to a possible transmission and possibly infecting others in your home or community. Also, by not following the local regulations of flattening the curve, you’re subject to penalties and potentially, jail time.

How to Properly Wear a Face Mask?

Wearing a face mask comes with a proper set of guidelines to maximize its effectiveness. To make sure you’re wearing a face mask properly, here are some guidelines to follow:
1. Make sure your hands are sanitized before touching the mask. If you don’t have a hand sanitizer or alcohol with you, washing your hands is an effective method.
2. Assess if your mask is clean and free of stains or funny smell.
3. If you’re using disposable masks, examine the mask for any holes or any damaged areas. Also, determine which side is top and front as each side has its purpose.
4. Choose a face mask that fits your face appropriately. A loose face mask won’t protect you from the virus.
5. An effective face mask should allow you to breathe without any restrictions.
Final Notes

Along with wearing a face mask, you must be vigilant of other precautionary measures as well. Practicing physical distancing, strengthening your immune system and going out of the house only when the transaction is essential are among other safety measures that you can follow.

These safety precautions are quite easy to follow, but it does require discipline and sacrifice. However, the sacrifice is necessary for flattening the curve.

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June 29, 2020
Shopping in the New Normal: What To Do

As most cities and towns were relieved from the enhanced community quarantine status, people have the freedom now to continue their transactions under the “new normal.” They can go to malls, freely jog around, and what others would typically do when given the freedom to continue with their lives.

However, as the persistent cases of Covid-19 continue to bring fear and worry for people, many are wondering how you can go around with your tasks without contracting the virus? With this mini-guide, we’re going to tackle how you can ensure minimal risks and safety despite being outside of your home.

Always Practice Social Distancing

No matter where you go, in the banks, at ATM booths, to the drugstore, and among others, always minimize physical interaction with people around you. As a precaution, always remember the 6-feet rule. Follow the rules of queuing whenever you’re inside a shop as most organizations have markers set as compliance with local ordinances.

Wear Face Masks

Since the Covid-19 virus’s point of entry is either through the nose, the eyes, or the mouth, wearing a face mask minimizes the risks of contracting the disease. Wearing a face mask is also in compliance with local ordinances being implemented nowadays. So, if you don’t want to get in trouble for not having a mask on and you don’t want to get infected, wear a mask before leaving your home.

Go Cashless

The integration of technology made it possible for wireless transfers and secure banking nowadays. If you have mobile apps that can be utilized for cashless payments, use it. However, as a note, be wary when linking your banks to these apps. Be careful of providing your OTP (one-time pin) and other details that may lead to phishing.

Opting for Pick-up or Deliveries

The “new normal” challenged many business owners to make their services and products closer and safer to their customers. Because of this, some transport or motorcycle-hailing errand drivers have taken the courage to deliver goods, medicines, and foods to its beloved customers.

If you have one in the area, you can contact them to transact for you. Or, if it can’t be helped, ask for a pick-up option from your preferred shops wherein you can just drive to their location and pay for the goods you need.

Shop Smart

Whenever you go shopping, prepare ahead on where you’ll buy and what shop’s you intend on visiting. List all of the things you need instead of wandering. You can never tell what kind of risk you’re facing the longer you are outside. Consolidate your family’s shopping list and go to shopping centers when it’s not peak days or hours.

As life transitions into the new normal, we must exercise vigilance and increased hygienic measures. If possible, bring hand sanitizers with you at all times. Sanitize your hands upon touching a surface for increased protection. And, don’t forget to strengthen your immunity by practicing a healthy lifestyle, eating balanced nutrition, and washing your hands.

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June 7, 2020
Smart Money Moves Before, During and After this Pandemic

Ever since the quarantine period has begun, many people suffered from the lack of economic resources and availability they obtain from their livelihoods and jobs. Others were fortunate to work despite the restrictions because their sector belongs to the essential goods and services.

From a statistical point of view, various reports and studies have shown that globally, 25 million jobs collapsed. Primarily, this number reflected those jobs that fall under the scheme of no work, no pay. As life for these individuals become a ticking time bomb, there are things we all can do to secure what financial resources we have left, and possibly save what we will gain as the GCQ allows movement and economic transactions.

Reduce Spending

As we were all sheltered and cooped up for two months or so, we can all agree that we have minimized our expenditures for fast food, transportation, and other immediate pleasures. However, this will affect the commodities’ prices as the economy went into a major halt. It’s safe to say that you can expect a percentage of price hike when the “new normal” comes in.

For our first smart move, minimize spending of unnecessary items such as take-outs, electrical expenditures, and online shopping. It can be tempting at times, but always remember, you have more important things to spend on. For food items, you can reduce spending by buying in bulk. Plan your meals in a week’s consumption or longer.

Spend Cash or Use Cashless Methods but Never Pay Through Credit Cards

Paying with cash makes you keen on budgeting restrictions. It makes you stick with your shopping lists and fearful of impulse expenses. As much as possible, bring only sufficient cash with you while you’re outside.

On the other hand, if you’re shopping and cashless platforms are available, it is better to pay electronically. As health experts would recommend, minimize transactions where possible virus transmission is present.

However, if you plan to use a credit card for the purchase, think twice before doing so. Shopping with your credit card is painful for your finances as you’re bound to pay for the interests later on.

Budget Every Home Aspect with the Family

As everyone is affected by this pandemic, it pays to budget all of your family needs in one basket. Ask each member of the house to prioritize their needs and list them down. Also, it would be beneficial for you to ask every member’s cooperation with your budgeting constraints for them to consider cheaper alternatives.

Save a Percentage of Your Income

If you are fortunate enough to start working after the quarantine period, now’s the time to start saving. Even if it’s a meager 10-peso coin or a 20-peso bill every day. The most important thing to note is that you’re saving.

Nobody knows how this pandemic will end or when everything will go back to the normal we once knew. By saving, you create a financial blanket that will save you a lot of headaches should expenditures bombard your way.

Final Thoughts

No doubt, having money in today’s setting is critical. As financial experts would always say, it doesn’t matter how much you earn; it matters on how you manage and save your earnings.

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June 1, 2020
Social Distancing: Why It Matters Now
As part of the mitigation measures against the spread of Covid-19, the six-feet rule or social distancing is strictly implemented. Science explains how mucus, saliva, and sneeze can travel up to six feet and possibly transmit the virus. Because of this fact, mass gatherings, events, and activities are either postponed or altogether canceled.

Although not being able to keep in touch with friends, family members and beloved ones is a bummer, being infected with a virus with no vaccine yet is a significant risk to take. If you’re wondering why social distancing plays a critical role in flattening the curve of Covid-19 transmissions, read more below.

What is Social Distancing?

Social distancing is the act of limiting physical interactions by isolating yourself at home, avoiding crowds and public places, and keeping at least 6-feet distance away from another person.

Why is Social Distancing Important Now?

Covid-19 is a highly-contagious disease. Transmission can happen because viral particles can stay on a surface for a minimum of three days. Imagine what will happen when an asymptomatic carrier shakes your hands, and you wiped your face with an infected hand?

Through the practice of social distancing, you minimize close physical interactions. Therefore, reducing the risks of contracting the disease. Social distancing is also crucial for the safety of every member of your household.

High-risk members are the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions like cardiovascular or lung disease. By wholeheartedly obeying in the social distancing measures, you keep your family safe and do your part in flattening the curve.

How Can I Practice Social Distancing?

Since the government has issued several regulations that limit people’s movement outside of their homes, it is safe to say that you’re practicing social distancing whenever you stay at home.

Self-isolating is an excellent way of practicing social distancing. For the time being, you must do something productive like learning a new interest, reading an old book, or continuing online classes or work.

If needs arise like going on a supply run, medical emergencies or urgent tasks arises that require you to step out of your home, here are things you need to remember.
- Always wear your face mask/face shield, gloves, or protective clothing if you have one.
- When going out, avoid touching or physically greeting people, you know. Give them a slight nod or a wave but never engage with them. Keep in mind that the longer you are outside, the higher the risk of viral transmission.
- Walking or driving to your destination is much preferred than taking public transportation. This measure minimizes physical interaction with people around you.
As the world continues to battle an invisible foe, discipline and initiative are crucial for flattening the curve. Cooperate with the authorities for everyone’s welfare and health. Also, don’t forget to boost your immune system, do frequent handwashing, and treat others with empathy.

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May 25, 2020
Life Lessons We Learn During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Throughout the surge and the fear which Covid-19 brought, people have come to various realizations. These realizations paved the way for people to learn life lessons usually forsaken until a disaster like this strikes. There is no doubt that the Covid-19 pandemic shocked the world when it comes to preparedness and prevention.

As we continue to battle such a horrific medical nightmare, there are life nuggets of wisdom that this situation endowed upon us through the hardest way possible. Here are our top picks of life lessons we learned from the pandemic.

Our Medical Capacities are Limited

Hospitals and our medical staff are struggling to keep afloat through this horrendous ordeal. Some were unfortunate to meet their demise while keeping their oath of service. This just goes to show that no matter how prosperous the economy is, when its priorities aren’t set on what’s essential, everything is bound to go downhill.

Offices and Classrooms Have Become a Social Construct

The new normal involves social distancing despite tasks interconnectivity and interdependence. Offices are functioning despite the remote working arrangements and classes have become modular as to fit the new norm. Some are more productive while being at home, while others become procrastinators. Because of this, we have learned that employers should take consideration in flexible working plans, and teachers should strategize new means for active learning.

Policies are Nothing When People Don’t Have Discipline

Upon enforcing the home quarantine for a specific period, some people were hard-headed as they continue to roam around and does not even consider the gravity of the situation. While others are quick to follow quarantine policies, some are being carefree, which causes the condition to worsen.

The Law is Flexible for Those in Power

When it comes to being law-abiding citizens, people in the seat of power aren’t as “lawful” as we’d like them to be. Some are using their authority and privilege to obtain and do acts that are harmful towards everyone’s welfare, and the community can’t do about it because, in the end, justice isn’t rightfully served.

Financial Preparedness is a Must

As some financial advisors would highly-recommend, it doesn’t matter how much you earn. It’s always about how much you save—saving financial resources for emergencies like the Covid-19 pandemic shelters you and your family from the uncertainties of food supplies, medical expenses and miscellaneous fees.

Life Plans and Insurances are Crucial

Aside from saving for a retirement fund, a person needs to invest in a life plan or insurance. Let’s face it. Funeral expenses are expensive. If you want to relieve your family from the burden of paying for this life event, a life plan or insurance can help.

Now that we’ve discovered or learned these lessons, are we capable of remembering this not only for today but for the future as well? What lessons have you learned aside from what we compiled above? Share your thoughts with us through the comments section below.

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May 18, 2020
What to Buy on Your Next Supply Run: Quarantine Edition

You have heard the devastating news. The authorities impose another 15 days of quarantine time in the hopes of flattening the curve. Of course, the Coronavirus pandemic has shaken the world by normalizing social distancing, the use of masks, imposed hygiene measures, and minimal outside movement.

Because people aren’t allowed to roam around without purpose in their hometowns, supply runs are usually done once a week or once every two weeks. These schedules may restrict you from going on many trips in cases that you forget an item. To guide you with the essentials, here’s a quick rundown of must-haves on your next supply run.

Dry Food

What are these dry food? These food items come with long shelter life. These items can be stored in your cupboard and don’t rot away quickly. Talk about cereal, oats, beans, rice and pasta.

Frozen Food

Quarantine time is perfect for learning a new skill, binging on a TV series or continuing work or school at home. Because of this, food prepping may not be a viable option, especially if you’re already starving. Frozen food is perfect for popping into the microwave for a quick meal.

Canned Goods

These food items are the ones you see most on survival movies. Canned goods offer you food in a flash and ideal for isolation because of its long shelf life. Although it isn’t as tasty as the fresh stuff, with your imagination and kitchen skills, it will work!

Fresh Goods

If you have a fridge, purchasing fresh goods will make sure your items are preserved and fresh longer than its intended shelf life. Meat, fruits, vegetables and eggs are a great option.

Biscuits, Chips and Cupcakes

Going on a supply run isn’t limited to purchasing “zombie apocalypse-supplies.” You can go ahead and buy chips, candies, biscuits and cupcakes for when you want something to munch on while watching movies, reading, or just doing nothing.

Liquids, Water, and Juices

If you purchase distilled water from local supermarkets, make sure to stock an additional week’s consumption for the intended period of use. For example, if you plan to purchase water for one week’s usage, add another week for storage purposes but, avoid hoarding.

It would also help to have coffee and tea for brewing, soda for a fizzy fix, milk, and juice that you can drink when you like.

Bathroom Essentials

Don’t forget to list down everyone’s choice of shampoo, soap, alcohol or hand sanitizers, lotions, facial wash, and conditioners.

Cleaning Supplies

Bleach, detergent, dishwashing soap, laundry soap and other items you need for cleaning is a must-have, especially when you need to disinfect your home.

Medicinal Supplies and First Aid Kit

Do you have someone in the family that has prescription meds? If you do, better stock on a two-week basis for a guarantee. Also, don’t forget to have a first-aid kit in cases of emergency.

Baby Supplies

Diapers, baby food, formula and baby meds are needed now more than ever. The best thing you can do for this period is to stock it.

Pet Needs

Furbabies need their supplies as well. At this quarantine period, you need to stock on toys, dog food, and litter.

Communication Packs and Internet Supplies

Being isolated in quarantine can be quite lonely and boring. To prevent this, you need to connect with people and drown yourself in entertainment with internet and communication.

This is just your essential checklist for a general supply run. However, you need to be sensitive to other people’s needs, such as the elderly, the children and the women or those who have disabilities.

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May 11, 2020