While most of the city is either on official lockdown by government mandate, or people are being wise and shutting shop for the good of the entire community, there is little to do but stay safe, and try and soldier on. Essentially, it's time to listen to the authorities, local, national and global, in their communication of how to tackle and slow down Corona Virus, Covid 19.
To help stay protected, follow the World Health Organisation's protocol of personal hygiene and social distancing. According to WHO advice, wash your hands frequently, and thoroughly with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water, as it kills off the viruses on your hands. If you meet people, try and maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. And if someone coughs or sneezes, advise them to cover their nose and mouth, so others don't breathe it in. Additionally, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth so that even if your hands are contaminated, you don't transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth, as the virus can enter the body from there. If you use tissues to cover your mouth and nose, dispose the tissue immediately after a sneeze or cough.
The Indian Ministry Of Health also has a website that is consistently updating information. Please stay home if you feel unwell, but don't panic. Be cautious, and speak to your doctor or a relevant medical personnel, to follow protocol of the local health authorities. Currently, there are a few hospitals in the city collecting samples, including the Bangalore Medical College & Research Institute and the National Institute of Virology Field Unit. The helpline number is 104 for Bangalore, and the national helpline number is 011 23978046 and the dedicated email for any queries is ncov2019@gmail.com. For all of the other helpline numbers, you can check the official list here.
For details on which centres are testing and for which are collecting samples, check here. Check out the list of organisations you can contribute to here and here's how you can help during this pandemic.
