PUBLIC HEALTH RESPONSE TO COVID-19: CAMPAIGN FOR COVID –APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

The latest MHA guidelines cast additional responsibilities on States as they have been authorized to permit re-opening of schools and social/ cultural gatherings and also to issue detailed SOPs. On the need for concerted action across the States and the urgent need to instil a sense of discipline and ownership amongst citizens for successful unlocking it is vital that some points are emphasized with perseverance which are highlighted here below.

Primarily, in view of the forthcoming festive seasons and impending onset of winter, it is likely to impose significant challenges, as well as the speculated increase and rise in the number of COVID positive cases in the State. In this regard precaution is better than cure and COVID- appropriate behaviour will ensure effective prevention, which mainly entails The 3C’s & 3Ws: Avoid Crowded places, Closed contact settings and Confined or enclosed spaces, Wear masks, Watch distance and Wash Hands. Scrupulous adherence to SOPs in respect of Respiratory Hygiene and Environmental Sanitation will be vital.

COVID Appropriate Behaviours:

1. Greet without physical contact
2. Maintain 2 meters/ 6 feet physical distance
3. Wear washable mask at all times
4. Avoid touching eyes, nose & mouth if your hands are unclean
5. Use a tissue or handkerchief or your bend elbows while you cough or sneeze.
6. Wash hands with soap & water frequently.
7. Do not chew tobacco, khaini etc or spit in public places.
8. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
9. Travel only if urgent or unavoidable. Take all precautions during travel.
10. Do not discriminate against anyone.
11. Discourage crowd. Encourage safety.
12. Do not circulate social Media posts which carry unverified or negative information
13. Seek information on Covid-19 from credible sources.
14. Seek professional counselor for stress or anxiety.
15. Helpline – 1800-345-0019, National toll free :1075.

Early testing and treatment has become the need of the hour to prevent morbidity. Late treatment of COVID positive cases leads to complications and residual damage such as lung fibrosis especially amongst younger patients and patients without co-morbid conditions.

Therefore, reinforcement of strict adherence to testing is very crucial and should be imposed attentively as well as Special emphasis on care for senior citizens, elderly and children.

Discrimination is another factor that contributes to the rise of alarming cases. Also because of fear of stigma many cases are concealed without testing and increase in resistant testing which lead to transmission of cases /uncontrollable situation.

Negative impact of Stigma and Discrimination:

1. It leads to resistance or low number of testing which results in late treatment for positive cases that determines complication/dead.
2. Problems faced in contact tracing due to incorrect/invalid personal information given by the patient.
3. Localized containment (sealing of houses) which is another preventive measure of transmission has also become an issue of social discrimination.
4. Creates unnecessary psychosis and false information that prevents timely intervention to protect against COVID.

It is crucial to be optimist, support and encourage each other without Stigma and discrimination.

Miking in all levels from village to State level should be encouraged as much as possible.

(DIPR)