Abbreviations used in this Blog/Note:
MN2M = My Notes To Myself.
NIOC = Not in our Control
IOC = In Our Control
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OBJECTIVE of this Note:
With so many messages and updates that everyone in the world are now getting on Covid19, there is lack of clarity among most of the non-medical citizens. Moreover, there is unnecessary panic and stress among many.
So, for my consumption, I have jotted down some points here to de-clutter my mind from Covid19 messages, and to remain calm and informed.
Fortunately, only a few situations are NIOC; rest are all IOC, as could be seen in this write-up.
FACTS, OPINION, INFERENCE, & INFORMATION:
· Covid19 virus is a pandemic, and it is going to be around for (at least) a couple of years. We should accept this fact, and go ahead with our life.( NIOC).
· If one takes proper precaution, one may never catch Covid19 (even if the pandemic remains for few years). (IOC)
· The vaccines that are released now (April 2021) are Phase-III Trail Vaccines. Typically, as per Google search, the Phase-III period spans 3 to 5 years. By then, the scientists and researchers on Covid19 would get a better data on the virus, virus mutations, efficacy of various vaccines and also their limitations, side-effects, etc. Accordingly, they would tweak the vaccine regularly for better efficacy. (NOIC).
· Some persons (diabetic, obese, lung ailments, … ) may have side-effects upon taking vaccinations. These are high risk category persons. (NIOC)
· As of now, there is no specific medicine for Covid19 virus. Only the Doctors can prescribe the medicines that best suits one. (NIOC)
· Do take the medicines strictly as prescribed, till the Doctor advises one to stop further medicines. (IOC)
· Do NOT attempt self-medication. Do consult a doctor; and proceed as per his prescription.
· For the next couple of years, face mask would have to be worn. In case of Covid19 red-zones, masks may also have to be worn inside one’s home too. Maintain social distancing at home too. (IOC).
· Everyone to follow the Safety Guidelines shared on www.mohfw.gov.in . Social Distancing, Use of Masks, Washing Hands before touching face (or mouth or nose or eyes). (IOC)
· Wear double masks, if one is visiting a risk prone area. (Cotton mask plus Surgical mask is the correct double-masking). Wear the mask properly covering the nose and mouth; it must fit tight. (Visit www.mohfw.gov.in for further info on these aspects). (IOC)
· Incorrect Double-masking. Cotton+ Cotton. Surgical + Surgical. Surgical + cotton. (IOC)
· Double masking not required if one is using N95 mask. (IOC)
· If possible, we must (a) remain indoors as far as possible, (b) avoid physical meetings of person(s), (c) plan purchases of essentials in bulk instead of small quantities such that the visits to shops or contacts with delivery boys can be reduced, (d) avoid social gatherings, parties, visit to clubs, bars, hotels, … (IOC, how much ever is possible).
· Refer reliable websites like www.mohfw.gov.in for information, if any. One need not continually look for Covid19 updates (unless one is doing an extensive research). The headlines in any Daily Newspaper will have the gist of the latest Covid19 update; that is enough. It helps in reducing the stress or panic. (IOC).
· Remain positive. Do not panic even if one (or a family member) contacts Covid19. Panic will reduce the immunity levels. Do not confer with many people in such case. Seek the opinion of a doctor and wisemen in your circle. (IOC).
· If sense of smell and taste is lost, then one has Covid19. Try to seek medication soon. Do not wait for any tests. Never panic. (IOC)
· Similarly, if SpO2 level drops below 95, watch closely. Check the levels once in 3 to 4 hours in such cases.
· If SpO2 level drops below 93, seek medical guidance immediately. Delay in seeking medical guidance can result in severe complications because after this stage, the SpO2 drop could be faster. Every hour might matter in severe cases and risk-prone cases. (IOC). ******
· Take the vaccinations that are offered as per one’s personal preference. Take the second dose of vaccination within the prescribed period. Do not bother about its efficacy; it is better than nothing. At least, one can avoid hospitalisation or ICU. (IOC)
· Even if one takes both the vaccines,one should wear mask and follow the Covid19 Safety Guidelines. (IOC)
· Even if a person recovers from Covid19, he has to take the vaccinations. (IOC).
· Do not discuss about Covid19 every day. Discuss other topics of interest. We must remember that not everyone is mentally strong; some may get into depression, panic stage, … which are avoidable. (IOC)
· Have the contact numbers of doctors, hospitals, clinics, test centres, medical insurance official, medical shops, etc handy such that one need not panic when Covid19 affects one. Also, the relevant apps that can be used for such emergencies. (IOC).
· We must safeguard ourselves. We must also see that we do not transmit Covid19 virus to others. (IOC)
· Like earlier pandemics, Covid19 will also brought under control in a year or two. Some new pandemics may surface in future. And the world will deal with them too. (NIOC)
· When in doubt, visit www.mohfw.gov.in which has latest information, FAQs, Circulars, Guidelines, etc on Covid19. It is updated every day. Thus, we will be correctly informed, and do not get carried away by rumours and incorrect messages on social media. (IOC).
· Go ahead with one’s life (by taking the precautions). Panic and Stress adversely affect one’s immune system. (IOC)
Jaikishan, India
30th April 2021
MN2M = My Notes To Myself
