The COVID Survival Guide
By: Sydney Fiorentino ‘ 24
We are all trying our best to not catch COVID-19, but cases have gone up because of Omicron and the holidays; unfortunately, I caught the virus myself. Let me say, you do not want to get it. But on the off chance that you do, here is a small survival guide that’ll help make your 10-day quarantine and recovery better:
1. Stay hydrated.
Every time I woke up my mouth would be so dry, I needed water. Even when you are sick, it is important to drink liquids. If you are like me and you are not a huge fan of plain water, try it sparkling or flavored! It definitely helped me feel better.
2. Get sleep.
The first few days, all I wanted to do was sleep. I took six naps in one day, and around five the next day. My body was so exhausted and I did not want to move out of bed. Get a lot of rest and listen to how your body is feeling!
3. Take medicine and vitamins.
Obviously, a lot of Tylenol or Advil is needed. I found Ibuprofen to help too! In addition, if you can’t go out and move around, take some vitamins to make sure you are still getting everything you need.
4. Find shows to watch.
You’re stuck in your room for a few days, so you’re bound to have nothing to do. When your body is exhausted, the last thing you want to do is work. So, put on a few of your favorite tv shows and just lie in bed to rest up. Or, find a few new shows to watch! I know during the school year it is hard to find time to binge watch tv shows, so COVID is a good excuse to do just that.
5. Take warm showers or baths.
Taking a nice long warm shower is very relaxing and will hopefully help your sinuses!
6. Drink tea.
One of the symptoms I experienced was a scratchy throat. Tea or tea with honey is a remedy that will help relieve exactly that!
7. Open your window.
Let some air in! Being in your room for a bunch of days can get stuffy, so letting some cold air in feels nice.
8. Talk to friends on the phone.
Being trapped in your room with no social interaction can be tough. That’s why it is important to Facetime or text some of your friends! When you are alone, it is easy to wallow in your own thoughts, so talk to friends or family on the phone if something is on your mind!
9. Sleep on your side.
I found sleeping on my side really helped! This might not work for everyone, but every time I lied on my back or on my stomach, my chest hurt a bit. Lying on my side was the comfiest for me, and it might work for you as well.
10. Focus on getting better.
Take some time to focus on yourself. Take a bath, go online shopping, or watch Netflix! It’s an important time to feel better not only physically, but mentally as well.
If you have COVID-19, make sure to quarantine and focus on just getting better. If you are behind on school, make sure to inform your professor. If it’s required you complete work as well, you can always try sitting at a desk, as I have found that forces me to be productive even when I’m tired. Feel better!
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