How do we ensure human rights and reduce stigma and discrimination?
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Why is COVID-19 causing so much stigma?
The level of stigma associated with COVID-19 is based on three main factors: 1) it is a disease that’s new and for which there are still many unknowns; 2) we are often afraid of the unknown; and 3) it is easy to associate that fear with ‘others’. It is understandable that there is confusion, anxiety, and fear among the public. Unfortunately, these factors are also fueling harmful stereotypes.
Does the coronavirus create stigmas in the population?
Stigma occurs when people negatively associate an infectious disease, such as COVID-19, with a specific population. In the case of COVID-19, there are an increasing number of reports of public stigmatization against people from areas affected by the epidemic. Unfortunately, this means that people are being labelled, stereotyped, separated, and/or experience loss of status and discrimination because of a potential negative affiliation with the disease.
How has COVID-19 impacted mental health services worldwide?
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted or halted critical mental health services in 93% of countries worldwide while the demand for mental health is increasing, according to a new WHO survey.
Are masks effective against the coronavirus disease?
Masks are now recognized as one of the most effective available tools to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. This intervention decreases transmission of the coronavirus and is a readily scalable measure to ensure the public’s health.
Do people who have recovered from the coronavirus disease develop immunity?
While individuals who have recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection might develop some protective immunity, the duration and extent of such immunity are not known.
What can I do to keep my immune system strong during the COVID-19 pandemic?
How should I clean my hands during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to clean your hands if soap and water are not available.
Should I still exercise during the COVID-19 pandemic?
There are many physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise. The novel coronavirus pandemic is disrupting every aspect of life — and exercise routines are no exception. COVID-19 closures of parks, gyms, and fitness studios are making it harder to exercise. However, exercise is important to maintain health, prevent weight gain, reduce stress, anxiety and improve sleep. Some studies even show that regular, moderate-intensity exercise may have immune-boosting benefits, but the impact of exercise on susceptibility to COVID-19 is not known.
How close are we to finding a cure for COVID-19?
While there are vaccines now for COVID-19, there is no cure for the virus. The FDA has approved the anti-viral medication remdesivir (Veklury) for treatment in hospitalized patients with COVID. It has been found to help in recovery of those severely affected by COVID-19. That said, remdesivir is not a cure.
How can you help prevent the spread of COVID-19?
Everyone 2 and older should wear masks in public. Masks should be worn in addition to staying at least 6 feet apart, especially around people who don’t live with you. If someone in your household is infected, people in the household should take precautions including wearing masks to avoid spread to others.
Can COVID-19 be transmitted orally?
The virus spreads by respiratory droplets released when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can be inhaled or land in the mouth or nose of a person nearby. Coming into contact with a person’s spit through kissing or other sexual activities could expose you to the virus.