Testing COVID-19 positive: Advised home care for mild cases

New Delhi, July 21 While the scare of the COVID-19 pandemic continues, citizens across the country have tested positive; some have been hospitalised while others have been advised to stay home care and isolation. The latter includes those who are asymptomatic or with mild symptoms and have tested positive for the novel virus.

While many have followed strict precautionary measures to avoid contracting the infection, it is another daunting task to prepare oneself for the time ahead in isolation- familiarising some of the nuances of living at least a fortnight in a single room goes a long way. life spoke to Dr. Suresh Sankar, Nephrologist and Senior VP Clinical Affairs, NephroPlus who advises home care for mild cases.

Before you test

It is alright to suspect that you are infected if you have a fever for no reason, experience a sore throat, headache or weakness. First and foremost isolate yourself from your family; secondly, consult your doctor and explore if testing is recommended. The rationale behind this is, if one tests positive, the likelihood of infection transmission is high in the period immediately before and after. If you test negative, well and good but there are caveats here which your doctor can guide. You might want to test after symptom onset, to ensure that the likelihood of the false negative is avoided. Testing at the right time is crucial.

Isolation after testing positive

Empty or move out things that others may need as you begin to occupy the room. Entry of inanimate objects are permitted but cannot be moved out again during the period of isolation. It is best to prepare yourself with the following: Limited inventory of personal clothes,

Few but needed cutlery, plates and cups

Personal bath needs

Washing powder or liquid

Washing liquid for vessels

Toilet cleaning liquid

Waste paper basket

Get into a routine, don't count the days and be blissful that you are doing an immense amount of good to your loved ones by isolating. Rotate what you do, so that you are not bored. If you have a hobby it is a wonderful time to indulge in it. In the first week of illness, it is advisable to go easy, especially if you are on the upper side of 40; you will tend to tire out easily. There might be some anxiety, video call friends or family; if it helps you to share the facts that are part of the pandemic with loved ones or friends, do it. Some might prefer to be discrete, but we are all different.

Medical monitoring: It is likely you will have medical guidance with regards to treatment and recommended monitoring includes fever, pulse rate and oxygen saturation

( With inputs from IANS )