It seems like you can’t turn on the news or even open social media without hearing about COVID-19, the coronavirus pandemic that is spreading across the country and the world. The virus, which originated in China, has since made its way to the United States, causing widespread panic and confusion with its arrival.

While many businesses have issued responses to the illness, many people are still unsure how to protect themselves from this serious outbreak. Thankfully, there’s no need to panic. While there is currently no cure for COVID-19, nor is there a way to guarantee its prevention, there are measures you can take to reduce your risk of contracting it. Here are some common-sense ways to remain calm but diligent in the face of a viral pandemic such as COVID-19.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

The No. 1 thing you can do to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading coronavirus is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water for 20 seconds each time. This will kill any surface germs on your hands. While the virus most likely enters the body through the eyes, nose and mouth, the hands touch all of these parts whether we realize they do or not.

Try Not to Touch Your Face

Because germs enter the body via the hands touching sensitive areas on the face, it’s important to not just keep your hands clean, but also to avoid touching your face in the first place.

Limit Social Contact

They call it “social distancing,” but it doesn’t mean you have to cut yourself off from the entire world. Experts recommend avoiding large gatherings or places with more than 10 people at a time. They also recommend staying at least 6 feet away from others when out in the world so as to limit the reach of germs.

Skip the Masks

Unless you are a medical professional or are already sick, skip the surgical masks. These masks are designed to keep germs in, not out. Plus, they don’t sit flush to the face, don’t protect the eyes, and are not useful if you touch them even once.

Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Keeping a clean, healthy mouth is a great way to reduce your risk of allowing bacteria into the body. While it may not directly prevent you from getting sick, keeping bad bacteria at bay will keep your entire body healthy and your immune system strong.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mazhari, please call the office at (703) 212-9622.