Keeping Israel out of lockdown; tips on staying safe during the pandemic

Since the start of the Coronavirus pandemic, 2,592 Israelis have succumbed to the deadly virus. In addition to lives lost, the highly contagious virus has also had undeniable impact on our social and public lives, one that we’ll likely be experiencing for years to come. Under the restrictions imposed on September 18th, Israeli businesses that rely on public support were forced to shut their doors, the education system closed entirely and most Israelis were prohibited from venturing further than 500 metres from their homes. The radical lifestyle change disconcerted and perplexed the public; September 17th saw hundreds of protesters gather in Tel Aviv to oppose the lockdown measures. However, despite the lukewarm reception, the nationwide lockdown was effective in curtailing the rapidly rising rates of infection. Since the beginning of October, the number of new cases has been steadily decreasing, prompting the gradual easement of restrictions. As students in grades 1 through 4 once again begin filling up classrooms, and the public again begins to congregate in streets and houses of worship, people must strive to remember that without proper safety measures in place, they risk yet another wave of infection and yet another lockdown. Below, we’ve compiled some tips that can you help you keep yourself and those around you safe during these challenging times. Remember the basics of good hygiene Hand hygiene has always been the key to avoiding potentially infectious agents. Our hands touch almost everything around us and most surfaces are infested with all types of microorganisms. So remember to wash (or disinfect) your hands on a regular basis. Avoid shaking hands with others and avoid touching your ear, nose or mouth with your hands when you’re out and about. This reduces the risk of a potential virus present on your hands being transferred into your body. Last but not least, disinfect surfaces regularly. This is especially important for surfaces and items that you regularly touch. Think door handles, car keys and your phone. You never know what may be hiding in plain sight. Practise social distancing Just as the restrictions are easing and you’re thinking how you can’t wait to get together with your friends for a café hafuch, remember that while you may want to give them a big hug after all this time in lockdown, it isn’t advisable to do so. The more people you interact with, the more you place yourself at risk of contracting the virus. Remember, some people have the virus without the associated symptoms. Even in places where social distancing isn’t strictly imposed, try to stay at least 1 meter away from those around you, where possible, especially if they are exhibiting cold or flu symptoms. Wear personal protective equipment, even when you aren’t obliged to do so Since the easement of restrictions on Sunday, Israeli police officers have issued 1,717 fines for violations of Coronavirus regulations; majority of the fines were issued to citizens that did not comply with compulsory use of facial masks. As the regulations and restrictions gradually ease, it’s easy to become complacent about social distancing and the use of masks, but it’s also wise to remember we aren’t out of the woods yet. Even in enclosed areas and workplaces, where the use of personal protective equipment isn’t strictly enforced, it’s advisable to continue wearing masks for the foreseeable future. Though there has been much debate about the usefulness of masks, we have now reached a consensus. Masks are effective in slowing the spread of the virus, primarily because they prevent those from suffering from Coronavirus from infecting others. While you may think “well, I don’t have Coronavirus, why should I wear a mask to protect others?” remember that the World Health Organization has reported that 80% of all Coronavirus infections present as either asymptomatic (having no symptoms at all) or mildly symptomatic. You never know who is a carrier! Additionally, studies show that countries with higher use of masks experience lower death rates! If in doubt, get tested! A press release issued by the Israeli Ministry of Health states “When in doubt there is no doubt, just get tested!” And it really is as simple as that! If you are exhibiting any COVID-like symptoms (fever, dry cough, fatigue) you can either run the risk of infecting everyone dear to you, or you can just get tested. Better safe than sorry! Although Israel recently began the first round of clinical trials for a potential vaccine, Health Minister Yuli Edelstein warns there is “still a long road ahead” to get the virus under control. The more we endeavour to stay safe, the less likely there is to be a new wave of cases.