While we keep hoping that the government will not be pushed into enforcing a total lockdown to the state due to the widespread Coronavirus issue, it is only wise to get ourselves prepared for the unexpected, and know how to survive a lockdown situation in a country like Nigeria.
Coronavirus is a deadly disease which had its first outbreak in a city in China called Wuhan. It had ever since its first case in Wuhan, China spread throughout the Asian country and now it has metamorphosed into a worldwide struggle.
Far beyond the expected, coronavirus turned a pandemic that has claimed thousands of lives while thousands of others have been able to recover from the infection. Initially, the deadly virus was said to only claim the lives of elderly people with a weak immune system and other younger people who have underlying health challenges.
But recent studies have revealed that the virus is capable of mutation. This was revealed after the virus claimed the life of a 21-year-old girl with no underlying health issues. This victim is said to be the youngest victim so far since the outbreak of the pandemic.
Recent statistics reveal 509,164 confirmed cases and 23,335 deaths around the world. The rate at which the disease spreads is quite alarming. And to stop this spread is the need for lockdowns of states and communities. See here for more information.
How exactly can one survive in a state like Nigeria if a coronavirus lockdown occurs?
Here Is How To Survive A Lockdown Situation (In Nigeria) Amidst Fears Of Coronavirus
1. Do Not Panic!
While it is only normal to panic in a worrisome situation as this, panicking often times aggravates an already terrible situation. You will not find yourselves making the best choices in those times. It would be recalled that the Lagos government announced the closure of schools from 23rd March, 2020. This was targeted at stopping the spread of coronavirus.
But a more worrisome side of it was that stores were thronged soon after out of fears! Situation such as this will only contribute to the spread of the deadly disease, rather than curb it! It is very important to avoid crowded places at this time and also practice social distancing.
2. List Out Your Essentials And Non-Essentials
At this time, it is quite cogent for you to have a list of very important things you need, and also the not-so-importants. List out things you regularly need at home, since you will be spending more time at home due to the lockdown.
Some essential things you would want to consider include; food, water, fuel (for your home engines), medication, toiletries.
Not-So-Important Items may include; games, batteries, writing materials, rechargeable lamps, power banks, papers, etc.
You should also consider scheduling the more-essentials since you are unable to predict the length of a lockdown, or how long it would take to have a stable situation again.
For your Food, you should consider having a food timetable. Control portion and avoid food wastage. For Power, you should schedule how often you think your generator should best run. At least, while you still hope to get some backup with electricity supply. Schedule based on how your electricity is coordinated.
For your Work & School, no school is expected to run. But your work is expected to be largely from home since it isn’t a holiday period. Draw out a workable time with your kids. This should help them know when and what to read and study. And also the period of time scheduled. You definitely will need lots of self-control and self-discipline here as there are bound to be distractions for you while you work and engage in order planned things at home.
You should also consider harnessing apps like Google Tasks. This would help you set reminders and lists of things you should be doing per time.
For your Recreation & Exercise… Yes! You should have them! The fact that there is a lockdown doesn’t mean the fun part of your life is locked down too. Naah! Ensure to live your life as normal as possible within your environment.
You can schedule having early morning walks around your neighbourhood with your family or just your kids. You may also consider a dance routine every morning. And try out some games or movies later in the day for some relaxation. You do not want to visit a gym where you can be prone to the deadly virus. But then, you can spur more creativity with your relaxation moment.
3. Stay Abreast With Reliable News Updates.
Since lots of fake news is and will continue to fly around the web, especially on COVID-19, it is very necessary to be sure of your news source. Get news from trusted platforms on or off the internet. Stay tuned to the news sources. News sources such as this World Health Organization, the NCDC and the Lagos State Govt will help.
4. Practice Coronavirus Safety Measures
If by any reason, you have to leave your home, it is very important for you to take necessary caution for your safety and that of your family. These precautionary measures will help you prevent contracting the virus and even your family.
i. Always ensure to wash your hands at least 20 seconds after touching a surface out there. Wash thoroughly with soap and water. This should also be before and after eating.
ii. If you perchance get into the midst of people, it is important to maintain a good distance between you and anyone. You should at least maintain a distance of 1 metre (3 feet).
iii. Stay out of crowded areas. This should include religious, social or family gatherings.
iv. Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose or mouth. Or at least wash your hands thoroughly before doing so.
v. Since many victims contract COVID-19 via respiratory organs, it is also very vital to protect your respiratory organs and practice respiratory hygiene. You will achieve this by ensuring your nose, mouth and palms are covered especially while out.
Put on face masks and hand gloves most importantly. Dispose of them quickly after use and do not reuse. You should also cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing. And do not reuse the used tissue. Dispose of it immediately.
5. Teach The Above To Your Kids And Family
COVID-19 is no respecter of persons, class, age, titles, occupation or status. It is important for you to safeguard yourself by educating those around you about the need to practice safety measures to avoid the spread of the virus. In fact, you should ensure this practice becomes a lifestyle in your home.
When we stay together and informed, we can beat COVID-19.
Stay safe!
