This is a stressful time and we all want to know what we can do right now to protect ourselves and our families. We need to stay updated and be aware of the magnitudine of this pandemic and the risks it poses, but at the same time, we need to stay calm and make the best decisions, well informed and not based on general anxiety. For us, it’s harder than it should be, because our thoughts are also with our families and friends back home in Cuba and we worry even more. But together we’ll get through this and become stronger and we’ll cherish more what really matters in life.
Reliable information is of utmost importance in these times, so we put together some tips collected from trustworthy websites, such as the World Health Organization or Red Cross.

Limit the spread of germs and prevent infection

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, computers, phones, keyboards, sinks, toilets and countertops.

Social distancing

  • If you can, choose to work from home even if you don’t experience any symptoms. The COVID-19 virus primarily spreads when one person breathes in droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes and when you’re at work, especially when working in open office spaces, you are more exposed.
  • Stay home, as a general rule! Avoid public gatherings and or even going shopping. If you really need to go out, maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Know how it spreads

  • There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
  • The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
  • The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
  • These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Check the source of the news

Fake news stories have been circulating around the Internet pointing people to “cures” for the new coronavirus, sharing advice and faking government announcements. It’s really important not to fall prey to such misinformation that increases panic and anxiety.
To help readers navigate the murky waters of misinformation, Newsweek has rounded up some of the stories that are going viral that are not factually accurate, an article you may find here.

This list might go on and on… However, you can also rely on what feels natural to you. This will pass, too, and things will get back to normal sooner or later, but it also depends on us to make the “sooner” scenario more probable. Stay safe!