Viral Outbreak Safety: 7 Important Precautions for Public Spaces

Photo: Clay Banks

By adopting a few simple habits, you can significantly reduce your risk and feel more confident in public. Learn 7 important precautions to stay safe and healthy in various public settings.

Why is virus safety important?

Protecting yourself during a virus outbreak is very important to protect your health and prevent the spread of disease. Viruses are highly contagious and can cause illnesses ranging from mild symptoms to serious complications. By taking precautions such as practicing good hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick people, and staying informed about the latest health recommendations, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection.

Photo: Kelly Sikkema

• 1. Maintain social distancing…

Keep a safe distance from others to minimize risk of exposure to illness. Maintain a safe distance of at least 6 feet, especially in areas where large groups of people gather. This prevents the spread of airborne germs and ensures a safer environment for everyone.

When standing in line or waiting for service, be careful to maintain distance from the next person. Social distancing is a simple and effective way to protect your health. Additionally, consider choosing less crowded times to go out and use contactless delivery or curbside pickup options when possible to further reduce close contact with others.

Wearing a mask is very important to protect yourself and those around you. Choose a mask that fully covers your nose and mouth. Masks are especially important in indoor spaces and places where social distancing is not possible.

Choose a mask made with multiple layers of fabric or one with a filter for added protection. Remember to wash reusable masks regularly or dispose of disposable masks properly to maintain hygiene. Additionally, it is beneficial to carry a spare mask with you in case it gets wet or dirty, ensuring you always have a clean and effective mask available.

Carry hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and use it frequently, especially after touching surfaces or objects in public. Hand sanitizer is a convenient alternative to soap and water to keep your hands clean.

Make it a habit to sanitize your hands after using public transport, handling money, or using shared equipment. This simple practice can significantly reduce bacterial infections. Also, to maintain optimal hand hygiene, consider disinfecting your hands before eating or drinking and after coughing or sneezing, even if you’re wearing a mask.

Photo: Kelly Sikkema

• 4. Consider a nitric oxide nasal spray…

Incorporating this into your daily routine is especially beneficial during times of high risk or when you frequent public places. Always follow the instructions for use and keep it for regular use. When used regularly, especially before entering crowded or confined spaces, it can provide increased protection and contribute to your overall health strategy.

• 5. Avoid touching your face…

Touching your face can transfer germs from your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth, increasing your risk of infection. Be aware of this habit and use a tissue if you need to scratch or touch your face. If you feel the urge to touch your face, remember the potential risks and try to distract yourself.

By reducing this habit, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick. Additionally, practicing good hand hygiene means that germs on your hands are less likely to cause harm if you accidentally touch your face.

• 6. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces…

Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as door handles, cell phones, and shopping cart handles. Clean these items with disinfectant wipes or spray before and after use to minimize the risk of contamination. At home, create a routine to clean frequently touched surfaces to maintain a hygienic environment.

Carry disinfectant wipes with you when you go out so you can clean surfaces on the go. Additionally, to further reduce contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, consider using touchless payment methods and avoid touching public touchscreens whenever possible.

• 7. Stay informed and follow guidelines…

Stay up to date with public health guidelines and follow recommendations from health authorities. This includes staying home if you are sick, getting vaccinated, and following any new safety measures that may be put in place.

Being informed allows you to make better decisions about your health and safety. Sign up for alerts from trusted sources and stay protected by adapting your practices as guidelines evolve. Participating in and supporting community health initiatives can also contribute to a safer public environment for everyone.

To summarize…

By taking these precautions, you can keep yourself and those around you safe in public places. Stay vigilant, practice good hygiene, and use tools like nitric oxide nasal spray to protect yourself. By being proactive, you can enjoy public spaces and keep your mind and body healthy.