What to do if someone you live with starts showing COVID-19 symptoms
With the large number of Nigerians who have returned to the country from overseas in the past few weeks over the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing being enforced in the country, many are finding themselves spending more time at home with family members who may have had close contact with a COVID-19 case or who just returned from countries with the virus.
The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Nigeria increased to 65 on Thursday March 26, and most of these cases are those who returned into the country.
Since you already know the virus is transmitted through large droplets, touching contaminated surfaces and through the air, that knowledge puts you at a vantage point to take steps in your home to minimize your risk and family’s risk of contracting COVID-19.
Although the virus can spread quickly in living groups, you don’t need to panic. Here is a list of what you can do to stay healthy if you have a flat mate exhibiting symptoms or has had contact with a confirmed case:
1. Isolate and let them sleep in separate bedrooms:
The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) advised that anyone showing symptom, who just returned into the country or had close contact with a COVID-19 case should, as much as possible, stay in one room and limit contact with people up to 2 metres (5 feet). The self-isolation period is expected to last for 14 days.
2. Don’t share:
You should not share plates, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, pillows or other items with the person. When such person uses these items, it should be washed thoroughly with soap and water, the NCDC says.
3. Keep the house sanitized:
When surfaces like tabletops, counters, sink handles, handrails and light switches are contaminated, they can serve as carriers, you need to keep them clean as possible. They can be cleaned with diluted bleach solutions and alcohol solutions.
4. Leave the windows open for better ventilation:
Ensure the house is well-ventilated. When people cough or sneeze, they generate particles that can stay airborne for a few hours (these are called droplet nuclei). Scientific studies show that higher ventilation rates (i.e. more fresh air) can be effective at reducing risk of airborne viruses.
5. Don’t let the sick person feel lonely, but stay safe:
A video call with other members of the family from the living room is a good way to make your sick loved one feel like part of the household, even if they can’t leave their room. This will keep their spirits up. Anyone caring and taking food to the person in isolation should wear a mask when around the sick person and keep six feet away from them. Stay safe as you show care.
6. Monitor the person for worsening symptoms:
If the sick person you’re living with seems to be getting worse, then it’s time to call the NCDC to swing into action.
