As key cities and provinces in the country welcome the new normal after six months of lockdown and community quarantine, health experts lay down tips to prevent infection of the virus when outside.

Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) President Dr. Mario Panaligan says that the public should avoid complacency in infection control.

The key rule is having that mindset to be constantly guarded, always careful and familiar with the safety precautions,” he says. “Putting it bluntly, treat everybody and everything as potentially infectious.”

He underscores health standards that must be observed always to keep themselves protected and safe as they go back to their work. “Let us always clean our hands, as often as necessary, with alcohol-based gel or soap and water, and follow respiratory or cough etiquette.  Regular face masks can be used, when necessary.  Social distancing must continue until the pandemic is over.”

Here are some of Dr. Panaligan’s health tips for the general public:

  1. Observe social distancing.  Avoid close contact, especially with sick people
  2. Make sure that your workplace is clean. Quickly disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
  3. Keep your hands clean, frequently perform hand hygiene.
  4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and face.
  5. Perform cough etiquette. Cover your cough and sneezes;  dispose of used tissue properly.
  6. Update your immunization status.

Dr. Panaligan says that the public must brace for the changes amidst the pandemic and be ready to observe health protocols for their own safety.

He says, “Welcome to the “new normal.”  All of us must be ready to adapt to the marked change in how we should behave.  Always take care of yourself.”

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