Stay home, stay well: Act wisely, responsibly

With the spread of coronavirus touching new heights every day, a loud and clear message to stay indoors and maintain social distancing has been sent out to the world.

Knowing that there is no vaccine or treatment available to cure the virus, it is time for every single individual to act responsibly and wisely, says Dr. Chowdhury Rehnuma Tabassum, medical officer of pediatric neurology and autism at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University.

She said social distancing and isolation is the ideal way to go, and maintaining mental strength is the key to stay safe.

Rehnuma suggested that to continue being mentally strong, one must not read news regarding the virus too frequently as people already know about the virus.

If it is possible, it is better to avoid checking on the death toll because this number may mentally weaken people. "It is not a cricket match or any sport that you have to be updated about the score or number."

Rehnuma said that rumours and misinformation are the biggest enemies at the moment, as they may misguide people.

"So, keep yourself away from misinformation and rumors."

She said that googled and searched additional information on internet could misguide people and unnecessarily worry them, so it should be avoided.

"Internet is a good option to pass the time but we have to be careful at the same time about the danger of the internet."

Keeping a positive attitude and maintaining mental strength is very important as it will help protect the immune system. "Negative thoughts have been shown to depress your immune system and make it weak against viruses."