After almost three months stuck mostly at home, Australians are looking forward to embarking on an adventure with the family for a well-earned holiday within our borders. However, this holiday season will be very different from what we were used to.
Let’s run through the basics to help reduce your risk of COVID-19 infection in the new version of ‘normal’.
With all international travel from and to Australia banned, Australians are strictly traveling domestically. States prepare to open their borders and lift restrictions and lockdowns measures are fast ending. But we shouldn’t be complacent to prevent a second wave of infections, which would have catastrophic consequences. Remember: COVID-19 is still out there.
The new normal
As we are slowly going back to a life after coronavirus isolation, we are learning to live a life where hygiene and sanitation are a priority.
In the past months, new rules have become part of the everyday routine including hand washing, social distancing, wearing a face mask and in some cases temperature checks. We have adjusted to the changes as they are our new normal!
These rules are here to stay, so we need to get use to them and help kids understand that they need to take them seriously, particularly given the recent spike in Victoria.
Stay vigilant with coronavirus
All Australian states acted quickly to slow the spread of coronavirus. Thanks to this, our case numbers – compared to a lot of other countries - are very low, having made it possible to ease restrictions.
However, health experts urge us to stay vigilant when it comes to COVID-19. All it takes is one undetected case to cause an outbreak. While we want to keep case numbers as low as possible, we know that getting rid of the virus from Australia completely is not possible. Just this week, Victoria has proven how fast the virus is moving.
Restrictions are loosening, but we need everyone to be alert to help keep COVID-19 out and prevent mass contamination again.
During and after school holidays, take this in mind:
• If you have any coronavirus symptoms, get tested
• If you are sick, stay at home to avoid spreading germs
• Wash your hands as often as you can or use a hand sanitiser
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Keep adequate distancing of 1.5 metres from others
Stay safe during school holidays
No one wants to return from a holiday with an illness, let alone with COVID-19.
Here are some tips to keep you and your kids well while you enjoy some time off.
• Proper hand hygiene
It is obvious yet so important, washing your hands can greatly reduce the risk of infection. Keep in mind that kids can be ‘super spreaders’ as they touch everything.
Whether you’re heading to a tourist attraction, hanging at the local playground or getting into the ski chair lift, make sure to keep your kids’ hands clean by washing them often: before leaving or entering the house, after visiting an attraction, before meals, before cooking…
If you don’t have water and soap at hand, we recommend you use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Make sure you carry one with you.
• Keep your distance and avoid large groups
While you are allowed to head out, limitations on social distancing and group sizes are still in place. If you get to a venue that is very crowded, come back at a quieter time or go somewhere else.
If everyone does their part and behaves sensibly, it will be easier for Australian businesses to operate and keep operating safely. And you are kept safe!
• Stay well while travelling
All holiday operators will limit numbers to ensure people can maintain social distancing. Demand during these winter school holidays will be high but most holiday organisations and hospitality venues will operate at about 50% capacity.
Guests will need to adhere to 1.5m physical distancing. It is tough but keeping a safe distance is essential. There will be strict enforcement in all states.
As well as the above points, keep these tips in mind for safe, healthy travelling:
• You might consider to boost your immune system with a Vitamin C supplement
• While it might be disappointing, you should cancel your travel plans if you or anyone in your party is sick.
• Keep an alcohol-based hand sanitiser in the car, so you can keep hands clean on-the-go.
Facemask
The protective measure of wearing a face mask has be proven to significantly reduce the number of infections: it minimises virus transmission via direct contact and prevents and blocks inhalation of virus-bearing aerosols.
The Australian Health Department allow people not to wear masks, as long as the rate of COVID-19 transmission is low.
Some airlines have made face masks mandatory on board of their plane as an additional safety measure against the spread of covid-19. Passengers who refuse to wear a face mask will not be allowed to board the flight.
Wearing a face mask, doesn’t mean that is a substitute for other precautions such as hand hygiene and cough etiquette. Keep doing it!
Our Bacteria and Asthma Protective mask is an effective and sustainable face mask with a replaceable copper filter. We also provide the child’s version of the mask with the patented copper technology. They are the perfect choice for anyone in places where physical distancing is difficult to maintain like public transport, busy hospitality venues
Conclusion
As Australians are off on their winter school holidays, we still need to be cautious and sensible.
Everyone is adapting to the ‘new normal’ to keep you safe and reduce the risks of contracting Covid-19. With a bit of extra care and some planning, it can be a great holiday for you and your family. Be mindful of those hygiene practices that are in place for a good reason: keep up with washing hands, use a hand sanitiser, cough into your elbow, keep social distancing rules, if needed wear a face mask and stay home if you feel unwell and get tested.
