COVID Appropriate Behaviours

As you are aware, the COVID 19 pandemic has led to unprecedented and unanticipated challenges requiring collective action and support from all. While all necessary measures to fight the spread of Novel Corona Virus (COVID 19) are being effectively led by the Central Government and State Governments, there is a need to reinforce the importance of preventive measures and practices in a sustained manner, to deal with the disease over the long run.

Know about COVID - Video for the deaf

15 COVID Appropriate Behaviours

A set of 15 promises, we need to follow, as part of COVID Appropriate Behaviours

Greet without physical contact

Avoiding physical contact is a responsible behaviour as it prevents the spread of COVID-19 disease and other viruses. Be responsible! Promote greeting without any form of physical contact.

Maintain Physical distance

Follow distancing norms in all public places Keep minimum distance. of 2 Gaj(6 feet). Especially, when you go out to shop for essential products to the vegetable or fruit market, dairy store, pharmacy, hospital, etc. Also follow distancing norms when in a room / office with other people. If the other person is
infected, their physical contact may increase the risk of transmission.

Wear reusable hand- made face-cover or mask, at all times

A handmade face cover or mask limits the spread of any respiratory infection and protects the community at large. 

How to wear a mask

When to wear a mask

Remember three key occasions one must definitely wear a face cover or mask. 

• When you undertake any essential travel or go to a public place
• When you are in a room with other people
• When you have any signs of cough, cold or flu

You can easily make a face cover at home to protect yourself. Always remember, wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol based sanitizer before wearing a mask.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

We tend to touch our face inadvertently. Let’s be extra careful, because

• Hands touch many surfaces and can easily pick up germs and viruses 
• Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth
• From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.

Your safety is in your own handsquite literally!

Maintain respiratory hygiene

• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze with tissue or handkerchief 
• Not carrying a tissue or handkerchief? Cough or sneeze into your bent elbow
• Don’t forget…Wash hands immediately after you cough or sneeze

Wash hands regularly and thoroughly!

Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. You can use Alcohol based sanitizer, if you don’t have soap and water facility. 

Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces 

Practicing good environmental hygiene makes your surroundings safer. Because the infected droplets are likely to settle on surrounding surfaces. You may use chemical disinfectants to clean the surfaces. Don’t forget to wear gloves during disinfection.

Do not spit in the open

Every time you spit in a public place, you put your and everyone else’s life at risk. Spitting in public places can increase the risk of COVID-19 spread. This also includes spitting after consuming smokeless tobacco products. Spitting in public places is also punishable by law.

Avoid unnecessary travel

Travel only when it’s absolutely essential. And if you do step out of your house…Wear your face-cover and follow distancing norms.

Do not discriminate - Against anyone!

• Show compassion and support to persons affected with COVID-19 and their families. Remember – As people keep a check on any symptoms associated with COVID-19 and are willing to undergo testing, they also provide an opportunity to beat the disease!
• Download the Aarogya Setu app to monitor your health
• Boost the morale of doctors, nurses, police, sanitation workers who are on guard 24X7 to protect us
• It is time to show CARE - Compassion, Assurance, Respect, Encouragement

Discourage crowd - Encourage safety

• Limit going to social gatherings and say no to crowded places.
• Unnecessary travel to crowded places or large gatherings increases the risk of COVID-19 transmission!
• Keep a reasonable distance of atleast 2 Gaj(6 feet) from others
• For important events which cannot be postponed, keep the number of guests to minimal
• Oh, have you tried connecting with your loved ones and colleagues virtually? Try it, it is much safer!

Do not circulate social media posts which carry unverified or negative information

Seek information on COVID-19 from credible sources

The most credible source for COVID-19 information is Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s website. You will receive all updated information and facts related to COVID-19 here.

Call government helplines for any query related to COVID-10

Call national toll free helpline numbers 1075 or State helpline numbers for any COVID-19 related queries. If you have any COVID-19 related queries or
observe any COVID-19 related symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty in breathing, call the national helpline number 1075 (toll free).

Do not hesitate to disclose your symptoms The earlier you seek help, the faster you will beat the disease!

Seek psychosocial support in case of any distress or anxiety 

• Do not ignore or suppress any feelings of anxiety or distress – both affected or unaffected
• Coping with any public emergency or outbreak can be a testing time for people and their families 
• Psychosocial support services are available at all times for you, to address any stress or distress related queries and concerns
• Call on national psychosocial toll-free helpline number 08046110007

Source : Ministry of Health and Family Welfare