BY SABEEN RASHID
Coronavirus started from China’s city, Wuhan. Initially, it spread only in Wuhan but then its cases escalated all over the province and then to rest of the world. Due to this pandemic, economic systems all over the world are affected.
This virus is easily transferred from human to human. It is hard to distinguish between those who have contracted it and those who have not. Its symptoms are like common cold that every person catches in winters. Many people have died due to this virus. We need to start taking precautions as soon as possible to keep ourselves away from it.
Coronavirus affects those who have weaker immune systems. The immune system protects the body from viruses. White blood cells, antibodies, and other components, including organs and lymph nodes, make up the body’s immune system. A person who has weak immune system is more likely to be vulnerable to this disease.
You can get a stronger immune system by practicing good hygiene, having a healthy diet, doing workouts and keeping yourself hydrated. Immune system can be boosted by the following tips:
GOOD HYGIENE
To protect yourself from coronavirus:
- Always wash your hands before preparing a meal.
- Wash your hands before eating.
- If you have flu, wash your hands after blowing your nose or coughing.
- Wash your hands if you meet someone who is unwell.
- Wash your hands after disposing the garbage.
TIPS FOR BOOSTING IMMUNE SYSTEM
To make your immune system strong, certain foods can help:
- Citrus fruits contain vitamin C, increasing the production of white blood cells, which fight against the infections.
- Red bell peppers have twice as much vitamin C than citrus fruits. They are also a rich source of beta carotene which aids in building a healthier immune system.
- Broccoli has high number of vitamins and minerals and is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, having antioxidants and fiber.
- Ginger helps reduce a sore throat and other inflammatory illnesses.
- There are many other foods we use in our daily life to build up strong immune system e.g. sunflower seeds, poultry, kiwi, papaya, green tea, turmeric, almonds and yogurt.
More ways to prevent the virus
To keep our body healthy, a variety in our diet is essential. We need to have a balanced diet and should pay attention to the serving sizes and recommended daily intake so that we do not get too much of a single vitamin and too little of others. Eating right is a great start to build up your immune system.
Government should create awareness about this in a number of local languages so that people can understand it easily.
(Sabeen Rashid is doing master in mass communication from National University of Modern Languages Islamabad. She can be reached at sabeenrashid1994@gmail.com)
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