The COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has affected millions across the globe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you must follow a few steps to protect yourself and your loved ones against this virus. 

The CDC advises you to: 

• Stay informed

Be updated with all the right information from the public health authorities. Only trust credible sources and avoid believing WhatsApp messages and other forwards that you receive. Also, have an emergency list of contacts ready in case the need to use it arises.

• Care for the old and sick

When you have aged family members, or anyone who is suffering from a major illness, you need to be more cautious. Their condition may put them at higher risk of getting severely ill from the virus. If possible, have a separate room or create a space to safely isolate sick and old people in your home.

• Adopt preventive measures

Wash your hands regularly and do not touch your mouth, nose, and eyes. Cleaning and disinfecting your home is crucial. Here are some ways to do this:

• Clean surfaces with soap and water
• Launder soft surfaces like rugs, carpets, and drapes with appropriate cleaners
• Wash utensils using hot water and while wearing disposable gloves
• Apply disinfectant for electronics like tablets, phones, remote controls, and laptops frequently 
• Do laundry using the right water settings of the washing machine and dry items thoroughly 

Be careful while stepping out

Avoid leaving your home as much as possible. However, if you need to go out, take the following precautions:

• Wear a mask and gloves
• Avoid crowded places
• Maintain social distancing

Once you return, wash your hands properly; sanitize your wallet, phone, and keys; and change your clothes immediately.

Foods to boost immunity

Basic hygiene is critical to keep the virus away. In addition to following personal cleanliness, eat healthy, home-cooked foods that increase your immunity. Incorporate foods like garlic, ginger, coconut oil, vitamin C-rich foods, and anti-viral herbs like tulsi, oregano, and dried thyme into your daily diet.

Health insurance for COVID-19

If you or your family member tests positive and requires hospitalization, a cashless health insurance plan can prove quite helpful. A regular health policy provides benefits for all covered ailments.

A majority of these insurance plans cover hospitalization costs for treating viral infections. As COVID-19 is one such infection, a comprehensive health insurance plan for family covers it.

This ailment is due to a new virus and does not fall under the category of pre-existing diseases. Thus, you can avail of the coverage once you are diagnosed with this condition. A few key inclusions of a coronavirus mediclaim policy for family are: 

• Daycare procedures
• Home hospitalization
• Ambulance expenses
• ICU rent
• Recovery benefit
• Maternity benefit with newborn coverage

You need to look at all the available options while searching for a family health insurance plan and then make the right choice. Read all the inclusions and exclusions thoroughly to ensure that you don’t encounter surprises later on.

When it comes to benefits under medical insurance for coronavirus, you have two alternatives. You can receive the reimbursement of the expenses incurred or avail of cashless facilities within the network hospitals. Learn about this before choosing a plan.

Invest in a coronavirus health insurance policy today to avert a financial crisis in the future.

Hemant Kumar