While the scare of the COVID-19 pandemic continues, citizens across the country have tested positive; some have been hospitalised while others have been advised to stay home care and isolation. The latter includes those who are asymptomatic or with mild symptoms and have tested positive for the novel virus.
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While many have followed strict precautionary measures to avoid contracting the infection, it is another daunting task to prepare oneself for the time ahead in isolation- familiarising some of the nuances of living at least a fortnight in a single room goes a long way. IANSlife spoke to Dr. Suresh Sankar, Nephrologist and Senior VP Clinical Affairs, NephroPlus who advises home care for mild cases.
Before you test
It is alright to suspect that you are infected if you have a fever for no reason, experience a sore throat, headache or weakness. First and foremost isolate yourself from your family; secondly, consult your doctor and explore if testing is recommended. The rationale behind this is, if one tests positive, the likelihood of infection transmission is high in the period immediately before and after. If you test negative, well and good but there are caveats here which your doctor can guide. You might want to test after symptom onset, to ensure that the likelihood of the false negative is avoided. Testing at the right time is crucial.
Isolation after testing positive
Empty or move out things that others may need as you begin to occupy the room. Entry of inanimate objects are permitted but cannot be moved out again during the period of isolation. It is best to prepare yourself with the following: Limited inventory of personal clothes,
- Few but needed cutlery, plates and cups
- Personal bath needs
- Washing powder or liquid
- Washing liquid for vessels
- Toilet cleaning liquid
- Waste paper basket
