After many years of going through a terrifying and anxiety-rising crisis, also known as Covid-19, it is pretty easy to say most of us wish there were simple ways to prevent catching or spreading the disease.  While there have been many new pieces of research made, many hours spent by scientists trying to find new information, there are so many unknown factors.  No one truly knows everything crucial to know, but what we do know is that basic self-respect and respect for others’ health is the biggest item on your grocery list.  We think we know everything, however, each day and each minute new information is guaranteed to help you. But, that is kind of boring so we did all the research so you could get a gist of what you need to know.

        During the first official lockdown, we were told to stay six feet apart, wear masks, stay at home as much as we could, etc.  However, the CDC states that schools should “maintain at least 3 feet of physical distance.” Still, that might seem dangerous, since being within 3 feet of someone you can easily breathe in their germs. Each day more and more information is processed for us to go along with, and it feels like it’s one step forward and three steps backward with all of the information that is canceling each other out. So here is a list of things you should go along with to stay safe from the life-threatening disease:

Get vaccinated!

     Although the vaccine is helpful, if you do not want to get it, or your guardian(s) do not agree with it, please continue to stay cautious.  Also, the vaccination is not 100% effective, but it is preventative like any shot you get.  Another thing: If you’re afraid that by getting the vaccine you will be tracked by the government, then please throw away your phone, your TV, and your credit card because those are all tracking devices as well.

Wear a mask!

      We all hate it, even those who promote it the most. But, if it helps, then it helps. Notice how each time there are more people wearing masks, fewer people contracted Covid? Even surgeons wear masks during surgical procedures to protect the patient from catching a disease from their germs. We might not all wear masks, especially if we are comfortable with being vaccinated, but nothing can stop us from contracting the virus.  All cautious actions are helpful to your health and others, so do not be selfish.

If you are feeling sick, stay home!

      If you are sick, you really should not be going anywhere. It is just dumb, you will not get any better by going out to dinner or a game when you are sick.  Sleep – lots of it – and fluids are your only things to be worried about when you are sick.  Go get tested as well (if you can find a test).  Remember that the rapid tests are not as accurate.

Symptoms to look out for:

• Increasing headache/migraine (especially if it is not normal)

• A random wave of nausea

• Dizziness, lightheaded, blacking out

• Loss of taste or smell

• Diarrhea

• Heavy lungs

• Inability to breathe

• Fever

• Pink eye

• Dry cough and nose

Side note for people who get health anxiety: Just get tested and stay home if you are feeling sick. As long as you are being cautious, then there is a slim chance you might attract the virus.