On April 07, 2020, Guyana joined the rest of the world in celebrating World Health Day. This observance is usually spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is a time to recognise the invaluable contributions of our healthcare workers to the development of a healthy and productive society. The observance usually serves as an opportunity to focus worldwide attention on important aspects of global health. Undoubtedly, 2020 is a critical time for health care, as no one can ignore the tremendous pressure the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on our health care systems and healthcare workers battling at the forefront to save lives.
A reminder to follow the instructions to stay safe
Remember, your health is priceless, and the healthcare professionals need your help to fight this pandemic. Follow the recommendations to:
o Practise social distancing;
o Wash your hands properly and frequently;
o Use hand sanitizers;
o Cover your cough and sneeze; and
o Call the authorities if you are not feeling well, and let them advise you.
Help to protect the environment
While you are at home, it is paramount that you maintain a clean and healthy environment:
o Conserve energy and water;
o Avoid the use of single-use plastics;
o Clean and sanitise your vehicle and house;
o Clean your yards and drains;
o Reduce the amount of waste you generate by choosing reusable over disposal items;
o Start working on that kitchen garden;
o Get crafty and convert waste materials into artistic masterpieces; and
o Plant some flowers to beautify your yard.
Be considerate of others
While you are at home, you may want to entertain yourself, or even work longer hours on projects. Kindly be considerate in your actions; remember that both physical and mental health are important.
* Keep the noise down! This is a time when we need to be sensitive and helpful. Many persons are working from home, and have adapted to an environment with many distractions. Remember, noise pollution is an offence.
* Keep your noise within the confines of your home, and do not disturb your neighbours.
* Operating heavy duty and noisy equipment should be done within the regular daylight hours, and for residential areas, it should be done within the 75 decibels’ limit during the day.
* There must be no burning! Please refrain from unauthorised burning of waste; it is both unhealthy and dangerous. Burning of waste can result in the release of highly toxic pollutants, which include particulate matter, nitric oxides, dioxins, and many other dangerous chemicals.
Remember to protect yourselves and others!
Sources
https://nurseslabs.com/2020-year-of-the-nurse-and-the-midwife/#Why-focus-on-nurses-and-midwives
https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/world-health-day-2020/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/nursing-and-midwifery
You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: The Environmental Protection Agency, C/O Communications Department, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: [email protected] or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and You Tube.
