The recent COVID-19 outbreak on Grenada’s mainland is cause for all to heighten our safety measures. 

We must maintain our vigilance whether out in public or at home, especially at home. It’s easier for the disease to spread at home amidst loved ones who generally are in close contact.   

Yet, we know that space is a factor when ensuring we observe the necessary guidelines for the household. However, for those in confined accommodations, some of the measures may not seem plausible. 

Our living conditions make social distancing and self-isolation unfeasible for some of us, should one member become ill. Still, it is possible to protect yourself and the rest of your family during this time.

If your home has limited space and a family member has become ill, we’ve got some suggestions that could be of help.

Here are five practical tips for keeping your household safe:

• Decide who will be the primary caregiver, as it would be best for other family members to maintain their distance.

• Determine beforehand a small comfortable sleeping area that you will use for an ill family member.  Be sure that it’s at least five feet away from where other family members rest.

• Have the ill or recovering person always wear a mask.  Also, the primary caregiver and other family members should don a mask or face covering when interacting with the patient.  It would be helpful to keep spare masks. But remember that you can wash reusable masks. It’s best to do so daily. 

• Ensure the ill person has separate bedding, towels, cutlery, and dishes.  Other family members should not share these items.  

• Be sure to wash separately the clothing, bedding and even dishes of the ill or recovering relative.  Do not mix these items with those of the household.

• Sanitise countertops, other surfaces, kitchen appliances, bathroom, and toilet regularly.  Other areas that can be neglected are light switches, window and door handles, remotes, fans etc.

• Everyone should wash their hands with soap and water frequently.  Remember to wash for 20 seconds.

• All household members, the patient included, should cough or sneeze into bent elbow, even when wearing a mask. 

• During the day, keep windows, and if possible, doors open to allow a free flow of fresh air through the home.

We know you want to do your best to protect yourself and your family in such uncertain times.  There is no reason you can’t do so if your living conditions are not spacious. It will take some planning, but it’s possible, and we hope these tips prove helpful.

Sources: LenMed and Nidirect.