Parts of the country are starting to report increasing numbers of coronavirus cases as a second wave of the virus begins to take shape in certain places. Other parts of the world are seeing drastically reduced numbers of cases. It’s hard to know exactly what we should do at this point. However, it is important to pay attention to any safety measures that are advised. Using personal protective equipment and adhering to quarantine guidelines is one way to help stay safe.
History tells us that second waves of pandemics are common. History also tells us that by paying attention to the things that worked and the things that didn’t work during the first wave, we can help people to stay healthier as the virus experiences a resurgence. One of the main lessons that we need to pay attention to during this time is the importance of personal protective equipment, or PPE, as it is commonly referred to.
PPE comes in a variety of forms. One of the things that has become an ubiquitous sight during the last few months is the face mask, which is a prime example of effective PPE. You may also have seen people wearing gloves, protective eyewear, or face shields. These are all there to help people stay safe and to help keep those around us safe.
PPE is not just for use in a pandemic. For example, if you are a construction worker, you know that your hard hat, goggles, and work gloves are an important part of staying safe. You’re not likely to get hit on the head on the work site, but you want to have those measures in place just in case.
The same holds true of PPE during this time of coronavirus. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it, having these protective measures in place just in case will help.
There have been a lot of complaints and speculation about face masks. Some people claim that they do more harm than good and that they are more dangerous than the virus. This could potentially be true in some instances, especially if the masks are being worn during exercise. However, when it comes to limiting the spread of COVID-19, the masks have been shown to be helpful. When masks are worn, there is a noticeable difference in the rate at which it is spread. We don’t have to like the masks, but it is important to listen to science and follow the guidance that is coming out and follow it. There’s not a lot of stuff that is likeable during this pandemic. Still, we need to remember that these measures are put in place not to make us uncomfortable. They are there to keep us safe.
As society begins to reopen, keep in mind that paying attention to the PPE that you use will keep you and those around you safer. It’s not a promise that you will not get the virus, but it can help to improve the your odds of staying safe.
And having effective PPE on hand for the seniors in your life will also do a lot toward keeping them safe. Whether your loved one receives senior care or not, taking care to stick to what is known to be safe will help to keep you and your family as healthy as possible for as long as possible.
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