Omicron | How to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the home?

As cases continue to rise across the country and new variants emerge, more and more people have a family member or friend who begins to develop symptoms from COVID-19.

According to the Peruvian Ministry of Health, the third week of January (from 17 to 22) an average of 49,205 positive cases were registered, which represents one of the highest peaks of contagion since the start of the pandemic.

Given this context, many people wonder what should be done if a family member in the home begins to show symptoms or tests positive for their PCR test. D

According to Cleveland Clinic Director of Clinical Transformation James Merlino, “Right now, we’re seeing a lot of cases of , where someone who is sick infects other people they live with”.

According to the study Transmission of SARS-COV-2 infections in homes, supported by the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, confirmed that it is common for the coronavirus to spread between people of a home, shortly after a person begins to feel ill. However, these infections can be prevented and avoided.

Take precautions at home

Experts agree that if a person has symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19, this means they should stay in a separate room and preferably also use a separate bathroom. However, if the space is closed, it is necessary to create as much air circulation as possible in the home, opening the windows if it is hot enough outside.

“If you have to be in close proximity to the sick person, everyone can wear a mask, keeping people away as much as possible”, says Dr. Merlino. However, if you cannot avoid contact with the person going through this process, it is recommended that you also stay home; this will ensure that

Care and protection of a patient with COVID-19

Caring for a family member or housemate with symptoms while protecting yourself requires some care and caution. Experts advise the following:

• If possible, avoid close contact with the person who is sick.
• If you cannot avoid close contact with the infected patient, wear a double mask.
• Follow everyday coronavirus precautions like washing your hands often and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces every day. This includes doorknobs, faucets, and light switches.
• Do not share personal household items with the sick person. Wash all cups, plates, and eating utensils with dish soap and hot water. If you wash your clothes together with those of the infected person, it is recommended to use disposable gloves and warm water.
• Avoid visitors to your home, especially anyone who is at high risk for complications from this disease.

For Dr. Merlino, “COVID-19 often enters through the ‘back door’: it spreads when someone loses precautions or when a family member is not careful”.