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The virulent new coronavirus is spreading at an unprecedented rate across the globe. But right here, in the UAE, the numbers – 74 cases; 12 recoveries – are less daunting.
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As doctors on the front-lines call for stringent measures and cities around the globe try to quarantine those infected, we asked the experts some need-to-know-but-odd questions that you might have such as: How often should you wash your jeans, especially if you are using public transport?; When should you sanitise your hands?; and is it ok to spend time with that adorable little pet of yours without worrying about spreading or contracting germs?
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First up, phones and computers. Do you need to keep a disinfectant on hand? Dr Shyam Rajamohan at Prime Hospital, says “You are less likely to transmit through mobile phone as the phone is used only by one person . One should be more careful about surfaces coming in contact with multiple people.” Clean it as you would without the virus acting as a boogeyman.
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Should you throw your jeans in the wash every time you wear them? “Just follow normal hygienic practices,” says Dr Rajamohan. “Ideally wash after using two or three times.”
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Hand sanitizer. While it’ll kill plenty of germs, remember that sanitizer is full of spirit that can wreak havoc on your hands. Use a good moisturizer to keep things smooth. “The general rule for hand sanitizing is to use - before , during or after preparing food; caring for someone at home who is sick; treating cut wound; using toilet; changing diaper; blowing nose, coughing or sneezing; touching animal feed/ waste and pet food,” he says.
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However, it’s no replacement for good ol’ soap and water.
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Can we still be pet/stray friendly? Dr Rajamohan says: “What we know presently is that the virus spreads from human to human . The previous coronaviruses were known to transmit from animals to humans . The prudent thing to do would be to avoid sick animals , use standard hygienic practices when visiting live animal markets. These include washing hands with soap and water after touching animals / animal products.”
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