In less than 4 months, the COVID-19 virus—also known as the “novel coronavirus”—has become a worldwide pandemic.
Why is COVID-19 such a huge problem? This virus hasn’t occurred before in humans…that’s why it’s referred to as “novel”. So people don’t have any inherent immunity. In other words, your immune system lacks the weapons it usually uses to keep you safe from viruses.
Neverthless there are several practical steps you can take to protect yourself in the weeks ahead.
Pay attention to facts…not rumors
Depend on reputable sources for information…not social media or gossip. Good sources of information include:
- The Centers for Disease Control
- The National Institutes of Health
- The World Health Organization
- State and local governments…they’ll have the official (and best) information about what’s happening in your area
Unfortunately, there are many false rumors floating around the internet about COVID-19. Stick with the sources referenced above for dependable information.
Practice Good Personal Hygiene
COVID-19 has a weak spot. Like all coronaviruses—and yes, there are others—the COVID-19 virus is encased in a lipid (fat) covering. This fatty envelope around the virus breaks down when you use the simplest remedy…
Soap and water. But be sure to wash thoroughly. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds (enough time to sing “Happy Birthday”).
Use hand sanitizer if you can’t wash your hands. Make sure you use a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
If you have to cough or sneeze…do it into your elbow or a tissue (and dispose of the tissue responsibly).
Social Separation
The COVID-19 virus spreads by personal contact. If you’re infected with the virus you can pass it to others when you touch another person, when you sneeze or cough in close proximity to others, or when you touch a surface someone else subsequently touches.
The solution is to stay away from other people as much as possible. This means:
- Stay home as much as possible. Work from home if you can. Most school districts are remaining closed for at least the next few weeks.
- If you have to go out for essential trips (grocery store, doctor, etc.), stay at least six feet away from other people. That should keep you out of range of airborne virus particles.
- Take hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes with you.
And if you’re sick…or you think you’ve been exposed…stay home! Period.
Support Your Immune System
Your immune system protects your body against dangers like COVID-19. You can help it in some surprisingly simple ways:
- Get plenty of rest…sleep helps your immune system work better.
- Relax…stress makes your body produce excess cortisol (the stress hormone) which inhibits your immune system.
- Exercise…go for a bike ride or a walk (just stay six feet away from other people).
- Eat right…many healthy foods contribute to proper immune system function.
- Don’t forget your supplements. Vitamin C, Vitamin D, melatonin, zinc, probiotics…these are all particularly important right now.
Remember…We’re All in This Together
These are difficult times for everyone. But if we all work together and use common sense, we can put this behind us.
At Renew Youth we’re committed to helping you improve your health and well-being. Proper hormone balance can help your immune system do its job properly. To learn more, call us at 800-859-7511 or use our convenient contact form to arrange for your free consultation.