HEALTH TIPS

Last December 2019, more than 50 cases of pneumonia have erupted in Wuhan, one of the Central Chinese cities. The first cases of the disease have been associated to people working in a local Wuhan market – they were exposed to animals, fish and birds. In coordination with the World Health Organization, local Chinese authorities have initially identified the causative agent as a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). It is now called COVID-19.

Common signs of infection from this virus include fever, shortness of breath, cough and generalized body weakness. The normal body temperature of a person ranges around 36.5 to 37.7C. Throughout the day, there may be minor fluctuations, depending on the water intake, work environment and stress levels. Fever is defined as a rise in body temperature above this normal range. Low grade fever ranges from 37.8C to 38.5C. Any temperature above that range may fall into high grade fever. In more severe cases, COVID19 infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory failure, and even death. 

From the Department of Health (DOH), there is assurance to the Filipino people that the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ) is strictly monitoring the entry of people in the country. In line with the thrust of the DOH, we are encouraging people to do the following self-management interventions: 

1. – Avoiding close contact with people who have respiratory infections. 
2. – Washing hands frequently, especially after shaking hands with people, touching door knobs and getting exposed to people with cough. 
3. – Practicing cough etiquette by covering your mouth properly when you cough with your hands, tissue or clothing.
4. – Drinking plenty of water, 6-8 glasses/day to improve the hydration status. High water intake can help address viral infection and body temperature changes. 
5. – Rest is recommended. High levels of stress can further exacerbate infections. However, if your symptoms persist despite these actions, it is advised to visit your most trusted physician.