The Coronavirus is a strange experience for everyone. From teens missing months of school to adults being cancelled from work, everyone is taking a major hit because of this global pandemic. Whether it is financially or socially, people are beginning to realize the importance of the things they once took granted for. Who knew that going to the supermarket or your friends house would be such a risk. Due to the Coronavirus, many strange crazes have emerged, such as toilet paper and hand sanitizers. Despite all the chaos, I am here to provide you with 3 tips to survive COVID-19.

1). Assume the WORST

Too many times have I seen reckless activity on social media. For instance, there are people having social gatherings at beaches and teens having parties. The driving force for this idea is mainly due to the idea that “oh, this virus is all the way in China, it won’t affect me.” However, slowly and exponentially is this virus spreading. There have been numerous reports of US cases now and we need to treat this as if someone close to you haa the virus. Assume that YOU have the virus. Overpreparing, to an extent, is the best option to stay safe and healthy. Some cautionary steps can be social distancing yourself from people outside your home, always washing your hands, and to not touch your face too much. It is important to contain the spread of the virus, and in order to do so, it starts with the actions of the people.

2). Stock up on the NECESSITIES

I recently went to my local supermarket and was completely stunned. The fruit and foods were moderately available and the home appliances were stocked. Meanwhile, as I walked past the toilet paper area, I was confused as to why there were none, while the necessities were still in stock. During a global crisis, you should buy frozen foods, healthy snacks, milk, water, canned food, and some ready to make meals. Buying carts full of tissues and toilet paper is nonsense considering that it won’t help you survive during such a serious time. Even though toilet paper is useful, buying hundreds of rolls isn’t practical. Stocking up on foods will serve a great purpose in the long run as it will provide nutrition and ultimately allow you to survive.

3). Don’t BELIEVE the media, sometimes

Searching through FaceBook posts or twitter threads is not the best idea to obtain information about COVID-19. There are many theories such as a Chinese laboratory experiment gone wrong that sparked the Coronavirus or a dog testing positive for the virus. Believing this sort of nonsense, will only create negative outcomes. People who read these posts will spread it around, ultimately releasing false information, which can cause unnecessary fear in people. To survive during this time, you need to listen to health care officials or professional licensed doctors. These people are specialized in this field and understand how viruses work and spread. Believing these people are smarter and more logical than trusting anonymous people online.

During times like this, it is important to stay calm and not ignore the virus itself. Following these 3 tips will help you potentially survive through these strange and tough times safely and in a healthy manner.

<Christopher Paik/West Ranch High School 11th Grade>