On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a “pandemic” putting countries across the world to a screeching halt. Begun as an unexplained illness, the deadly virus has since spiralled to an extent claiming thousands of lives daily and triggering a stringent lockdown as a measure to curb the spread of the virus.
India is now battling the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is believed to be led by the ‘double mutant’ and has strained the country’s health infrastructure. However, considering the remarkable human self, we all have managed to find ways to adapt to the complexities in the time of covid-19. The frontline workers, celebrities, influencers, students, or even an unknown person to you are doing their best work to help each other get through the second wave. Several websites and applications on the internet have detailed everything about the COVID-19 care for one to have the minute they need it. It is vital to have complete knowledge of various tests and diagnostics, updated information, and tips to help protect oneself from contracting the virus. So, let’s begin with the basics:-
WHY COVID RT-PCR TEST?
As of now, the RT-PCR test is the most reliable test and preferred test for detecting COVID-19. The test is a real-time diagnostic that detects the presence of the covid infection and is considered the most trusted COVID test because of its high accuracy in terms of its results. The test involves the taking of a nasal swab or a throat swab which would be sent to a laboratory where it will be analyzed for further diagnosis.
The turnaround time for the results could take a couple of minutes or a few days. The RT-PCR is a sensitive test and, it continues to be the “gold standard” for detecting COVID. If you experience any symptoms of covid-19 or have been in close contact with a person who has tested positive for the virus, it is wise to opt for a RT-PCR Test in your city at the earliest. If you test positive, isolate yourself at home and follow the advice of your healthcare provider.
TIPS TO FOLLOW POST- VACCINATION
The rolling out of vaccination has come as a sigh of relief, and the COVID-19 vaccines are safe for most people 18 years and older. While children and people with certain underlying conditions are exempted from taking a jab of vaccine, several clinical trials are in action to make the vaccine available for all. Approved COVID-19 vaccines till now have shown efficacy and protection against getting seriously ill from the disease. If you are considering getting vaccinated against the virus, here are a few tips to keep in mind post-vaccination:
- Stay back at the place where you get vaccinated for at least 15 minutes just to see if there are any problems or unusual reactions.
- It is natural to face some minor side effects after getting vaccinated. These include arm soreness, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle or joint aches.
- If you face severe inconvenience or get any extreme reactions after vaccination, consult a doctor immediately.
DO NOT STOP TAKING PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES FOR COVID-19
While vaccines help one to stay protected from contracting serious covid-19 infections, it is also of utmost importance to continue taking measures to help prevent one from any further complications.
- Maintain social distancing
- Clean your hands frequently
- Wear a well-protected mask when in closed or poor ventilated settings
Continue to follow the preventive measures that help to slow and eventually stop the spread of this deadly virus.
Visit the site: Khatrimaza
