The name “coronavirus” is derived from the Latin name “corona” which refers to the appearance of virions when viewed by an electron microscope. The virions have a fringe of large, bulbous surface projectiles which creates the impression of a crown.  This small and newly discovered virus is sweeping across the world at a rapid rate and leaving no continent untouched.  Panic has engulfed all of us, leading to all kinds of rumors and spread of misinformation. It is incumbent upon all of us to educate ourselves and shift the “wheat from the chaff” as the old English adage goes.

The Centre of disease control, an American government agency is one of the world’s reliable source of information. So instead of getting wrong information from various forms of social media, which is causing more mayhem than education, we should turn to such credible sources of information. Here are the recommendations made by CDC for all of us to know:

1. Wash your hands regularly – The best way to keep coronavirus as well as many other infections / diseases is proper hygiene. This translates to washing your hands with water and soap properly.  Wash them at every given opportunity.  If you do not have access to water in certain situations, turn to alcohol-based hand sanitizers which are easy to carry and use.

2. Don’t touch your face – CDC has advised that we all should avoid touching our eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Its hard to follow of course but in our best interest.

3. Social isolation – as the disease spreads among communities, it is best to avoid potential sources of infection such as public transport and places such as malls, shopping areas, tourists sites, eateries, parties, clubs etc. The smaller number of people we come in contact with is best for us. So, for the time being, stay home and avoid social & other gatherings of any sort.

4. Avoid close contact – If a relative or friend is unwell, stay away. It’s that simple.

5. Cover coughs and sneezes – If you get the urge to cough or sneeze, kindly use a handkerchief. Or you could use a disposable paper tissue (which must be discarded in a thrash can with a lid).

6. Disinfect surfaces – Clean and disinfect sources with which you are in regular contact such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, cs, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

7. Visit doctor/health clinic – If you or a close one exhibit symptoms of the virus, kindly visit your nearest hospital/testing centre to get tested to begin with.

With a calm mind and crystal-clear information, we can fight this virus successfully. Let us all come together and work as humanity to face this challenge head on.