Air pollution on the rise again; Here are 5 things you can do to keep yourself safe during the pandemic
After a brief spell of fresh air and bright blue skies, cities like Delhi-NCR have been experiencing a dip in the air quality index (AQI). While the season changes and more and more people begin to step out, experts say that there could be a further decline in air quality.
Not only is polluted air a troublesome sign for people with respiratory problems, but breathing in toxic air is also making people develop allergic reactions, have a dry cough and have symptoms similar to that of COVID-19. Air pollution woes could also make matters worse during the pandemic.
Hence, rather than waiting until the end, prevention strategies and measures should be adopted right away. Here are five such safety measures you must take to stay safe from the pollution and breathe safely during this time.
Use an N95 mask
An N95 mask is considered to be one of the safest masks right now, both for protection against COVID-19 as well as filtering out germs and pollutants. While mask-wearing is a mandate in major cities, do not forget to cover your mouth, even if you are going to take a simple walk around the neighbourhood, or in the park. Make sure that your mouth and the nose are fully covered and there are no gaps for any germs or toxic particles to come crawling in. Once you get back home, wash your hands, remove the mask and follow proper disinfection methods.
If an N95
mask is not available, you can try and use a W95 mask (which are touted
to capture upto 95% of bacteria, viruses and pollutants) for comfort.
Three-ply fabric masks can also be used, but regular sanitization and
disinfection are thoroughly recommended.
Stay indoors and restrict your movement
Staying indoors is one of the best ways to prevent viruses from coming your way and beating nasty air pollution. While we do understand that the option is not workable for every single individual, try and limit your exposure to the outdoor, especially if you belong to a high-risk category, are immuno-compromised, or suffer from medical conditions. Pregnant women, new mothers and children should stay indoors too.
Detox after you come home
If you have started to return back to your office space or coming back home after completing chores, remember to wash all the toxins off of our body. This step is extremely important to follow in times of the pandemic.
Religiously wash your hands, your body, wear fresh clean clothes (if you prefer) to ward off any germs and pollutants which would have travelled the distance with you.
There are dietary detoxes you can follow as well. Make it a habit to sip on herbal teas and immunity-boosting chais on a regular basis. Try and consume more of antioxidant-rich foods such as broccoli, ginger, garlic, peanuts, jaggery and ayurvedic herbs such as mulethi (liquorice root), ashwagandha, honey. Some of these foods are also loaded with anti-viral properties, which will doubly protect you.
Staying hydrated and drinking adequate water is also advised.
Take a steam every day
Whether there's a raging viral infection risk that scares you or the polluted air making it difficult to breathe, make sure you take a therapeutic steam every day to open up your sinuses, remove any irritants, germs and viruses settling inside your respiratory tract. Warm steam inhalation also improves blood circulation in the body and clears away toxins.
For added benefit, you can try adding in some essential oils and herbs in the hot water, such as eucalyptus oil, peppermint, cinnamon, lemon extract. These herbs are extremely beneficial and soothing if you are prone to catching cough, cold, flu, or are asthmatic.
Sanitize your car as well
If you travel outside and use a car, make sure you give your car a good clean too. It is a good idea to clean your vents and coolants of any bacteria, fungi, or virus which may have collected. Keep the AC vents clean and well-ventilated. Remember, a car is one of the germiest places you could be getting exposed to.