10 Steps to Follow if you Test Positive for COVID-19
It is crucial to carefully watch symptoms if you test positive for Coronavirus. Even before you go for a test, if you notice symptoms such as fever, fatigue, cough and loss of smell and taste, immediate isolation in a well-ventilated room must be done. If your receive a positive test report and there are mild upper respiratory tract symptoms like fever, cough, cold, sneezing, loss of smell without shortness of breath or hypoxia, home isolation and home-based care are the best options considering the current situation where our healthcare systems are severely strained.
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you must stay in a designated room away from all other people in your home, especially the elderly and those with health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disease, renal problems and other such issues.
Here are 10 steps you can follow if you test positive for the COVID-19 virus:
- Use a triple-layer medical mask all the time. It is advised to discard the mask after eight hours of use or earlier if it becomes wet or visibly soiled. The used mask should be discarded only after disinfecting it with 1% Sodium Hypo-chlorite.
- Take ample rest and drink a lot of fluids to maintain adequate hydration.
- Follow respiratory etiquette all the time.
- Wash hands from time to time with soap and water for at least 40 seconds or sanitize hands with an alcohol-based sanitizer.
- There should be no sharing of personal items of use with other family members. This includes items such as food, utensils, dishes, water bottle, drinks, used towels or bed linen.
- Undertake sanitization of surfaces which are frequently touched: doorknobs, handles, table tops, etc. It can be done with 1% hypochlorite solution.
- You must strictly follow your doctor’s instructions and the medical advice given to you. Take the prescribed medicines, stay well-hydrated, consume a healthy diet, do breathing exercises and sleep in a prone (on your stomach) position.
- Regularly monitor your temperature and oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels. Please seek immediate medical help if symptoms deteriorate.
- Stay positive and try doing light exercise if possible.
- Stay connected with your doctor and keep them posted on your health status