Colds and flu are communicable diseases. They are easily transmitted mostly by hand to nose or mouth contact, by air and from contact from person to person. Crowding in public places makes it easy to transfer the diseases. Since Metro Manila is such a small city and most people commute, it is easy to get infected in waiting sheds, buses, jeepneys and in MRT. During rush hour one can find himself lining up in walk bridges, elevators and jeepney or tricycle lines. Our malls and market places are also crowded. Even the fast food restaurants are full of people.
Since we are people living with HIV/AIDS, we should be more protective of ourselves especially this season. Most of us can't avoid the crowding but we still have to think that we can't afford to be sick.
Here are some tips that I can think of to help us avoid crowding during this season:
1. If you are commuting, leave home early and leave the office late to avoid the crowding during rush hour.
2. Avoid crowded big malls during weekends. Come early if possible because usually the malls are empty when they just barely open in the morning.
3. If possible just order for delivery instead of going to a fast food restaurant.
4. Move away from a crowded waiting shed.
5. Avoid premier events like movies or running events. Usually there are lines and the place is crowded
6. If working out in a gym, always spray with alcohol all the equipment and handle bars that you are going to have contact with.
Now are we then safe? Not yet. Always remember that we have to make sure that our body too is clean. Germs are scared of soap and water so make sure that we do frequent washing of hands and face. Take a bath when we enter the house, everyday. Also, we have to tell our housemates to do the same to help you not catch whatever they caught outside your house or office.
In the office or any work place, bring alcogel or any hand sanitizer. If comfortable, wear a mask or just cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief. Clean your work table. When using office restrooms, wipe with a tissue paper or spray the handle of the room. Use your elbow to flush the toilet handle.
In case you do catch a cold (knock on wood), call your doctor fast. We can't just take any medicine without the order of our doctor especially those who are taking ARV's. Do conservative treatment too ... rest and drink lost of fluids and eat citrus fruits.
During this season of colds and flu we have to do our part. Always remember that our immune system is weak so we have to make sure that we don't get any infection as simple as these communicable diseases.
FOR TOPIC SUGGESTIONS, please email me at pozziepinoy@yahoo.com
DONATE to The Love Fund : The Love Fund