Coronavirus or Covid-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) is a virus that attacks the respiratory system. This disease can cause mild to severe infections, such as lung infections (pneumonia). Transmission of this virus occurs through sputum splashes (droplets) from the respiratory tract, for example when in a closed and crowded room with poor air circulation or direct contact with droplets. This virus was first discovered in the city of Wuhan, China, in late December 2019 and began to enter Indonesia in early March 2020.
Although the Covid-19 pandemic is not over yet, people have started doing activities outside as usual. This is done so that Indonesians can adapt by implementing new habits. However, recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated the existence of a new variant of the coronavirus, namely the Omicron variant or variant B.1.1.529.1 This variant has been detected in several countries when it was first discovered on the African continent.
This new variant has more mutations than any other variant. Of the total 55 mutations, 32 of them are related to cell infection and immune response.2 This has made the world anxious again because this variant is recognized as more resistant and stronger in inhibiting the immune system. WHO is calling on other countries to step up surveillance efforts to better understand the coronavirus variants in circulation.
To avoid transmission of the virus during the adaptation period of new habits, the following are safety measures that can be taken to protect yourself and others from the Covid-19 virus3 including the application of 6M4 , namely:
- Wear a mask and do not touch your face with unwashed hands
- Wash hands with soap and running water
- If there is no sink, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
- Maintain a minimum distance of 1 meter and avoid crowds
- Reduce mobility
- Avoid eating together with others
Also, always have disinfectant wipes on hand to clean items you intend to use and a hygiene kit for traveling.
By following these steps, we can adapt to new habits during the pandemic and do outdoor activities while still feeling safe. Indirectly, we can also help break the chain of spreading the Covid-19 virus for the safety of ourselves and others around us.
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