As of Monday evening, March 16, the official number of reported COVID-19 cases in the Philippines totaled 142. On top of that, the current administration ordered an “enhanced community quarantine” that covers the whole of Luzon.
While developments of the past few days have stoked confusion and fear, the best course of action is still a no-panic approach. Instead of giving into doubts, let’s focus on the facts and the several ways we can make an impact as individuals.
If an option; keep your distance
The phrase “social distancing” is now very much in vogue. Essentially, the idea is to practice self-isolation—like working from home or staying in when you’re sick—and to keep a safe distance from other people when in public. (The often-repeated distance is around six feet, or nearly two meters.)
In a crowded cluster of cities like Metro Manila, that is a tough suggestion to follow. If you have the option to practice this, please do. But don’t see it as a cure-all, because what really helps in slowing the coronavirus is following the next tip.
Take hygiene seriously
The main worry about COVID-19 is not how deadly it is, but how easily and quickly it spreads. It sounds way too elementary to be effective, but something as simple as washing your hands really does have an impact on the rate of the virus’s spread.
Do your small but crucial part and practice these health precautions now:
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. The recommended time is at least 20 seconds.
- Cough into your elbow, a tissue, your shirt. Just don’t cough into your hands or the air.
- Skip the masks. Medical professionals and health centers are running out of this valuable commodity.
- Remember: If a hamster can do it, so can you.
Spread facts and double-check new information
Rumors, conspiracy theories, and unsupported health claims related to COVID-19 have spread and are spreading like wildfire. Misinformation—like eating bananas to ward off the virus, for instance—is harmful because it makes it harder for the right information to reach people when it’s really needed.
Limit your exposure to false information by checking for updates through reliable resources, such as official news outlets and the websites of health organizations. Here are a few that will keep you and others on the right track:
- CNN Philippines, for ongoing developments in the Philippines regarding the quarantine and government response
- The World Health Organization, for confirmed health facts about COVID-19 and updates on vaccine development
- The Department of Health (DOH), for local news on the virus, new cases, testing kits, and more
Donate where it counts
If there’s anything Filipinos are known for, it’s our ability to come together and help out during times of crisis. Show support for frontliners—especially medical professionals—and donate the resources you do have.
Rappler.com has published a (constantly updating) list of groups, organizations, and institutions who accept monetary or in-kind donations. These group ensure that whatever you donate end up with the right people.
2019-nCoV has the potential to be a global pandemic, but that fact alone is no reason for panic. Stay informed and practice basic hygiene; it might appear insignificant, but it’s crucial.
To help our community in need, Perajet will continue to accept loan applications for the people’s financial needs.