In some hidden corner of Singapore, the coronavirus is rubbing its hands with anticipation.
Chinese New Year is just around the corner, and if we celebrate like it’s 2019 or even 2020, then Covid-19 will be very happy indeed.
The authorities have already introduced additional restrictions for CNY celebrations, but there are still things we can do to stay safe this Lunar New Year.
Speaking to TODAYonline, two infectious disease experts and a sociologist listed some good practices to adopt for this year’s CNY celebrations.
Don’t Turn on Your Air-Conditioner During House Visits
Dr Leong Hoe Nam, an infectious diseases specialist who has appeared in TV and new media numerous times, advised residents to keep their windows open during house visits.
This will make it more difficult for the coronavirus to survive and thrive.
So, don’t turn your air-conditioners on, as it’s better to keep your homes well-ventilated.
Also, if possible, Dr Leong advised celebrants to hold their gatherings outdoors, because higher heat and humidity are believed to slow the spread of Covid-19.
Mask Up
Dr Leong said that when having a meal or playing games, we should mind what we say.
Specifically, we should avoid plosive words that start with P and B because they spread the virus better than those starting with other consonants.
This includes shouting “pohng” when playing Mahjong.
Though, you can’t exactly have a gathering where everyone is quiet, of course. That wouldn’t be any fun.
That’s why it’s so important to keep your masks on, because we’re all bound to speak and banter with our friends and family.
So, wear a mask at all times, except when you’re eating and drinking.
Also, remember to wash your hands regularly throughout the gathering, and provide alcohol-based sanitisers for your guests.
Dr Leong also reminded residents of the dangers of playing games under ultraviolet light.
Some believe this will decontaminate surfaces, but as Dr Leong pointed out, it can cause cataracts to develop in your eyes instead.
Social Bubble
Another infectious diseases expert – John O’Horo from the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, US – suggested using the “social bubble” approach.
Speaking to TODAYonline, he explained that it would be difficult to mask up at all times with family, because of the desire to connect with each other.
So, he proposed maintaining a small group of people with whom you can let your guard down.
This will prevent a large cluster from forming if one individual in the bubble gets infected with Covid-19.
However, this will only work if everyone in the bubble follows this approach.
This means you should only visit a defined group of family members, instead of two households every day.
Maintain Hygiene When Serving Food
One reason why large gatherings and parties are so dangerous is that food is often involved.
Food sharing and double-dipping can be a major source of transmission if diners do not practice good hygiene.
Use tongs and cutlery to serve food, and don’t share your food with others.
Snack platters should also be covered, and separate cutlery should be used when going for a second and subsequent round of food.
Also, remember to wash your hands thoroughly before handing out red packets, or opt for digital ang baos instead.
The same goes for distribution of any food item.
We’ve already seen in other countries how infections spike after the festive period, so if we don’t want even more restrictions, we should follow the rules above.
Featured Image: happycreator / Shutterstock.com
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