Retropoplifestyle

Disinfecting your house to ward off COVID19?

By Dr Sudhir Gore

With Coronavirus tenaciously living among us, people have increased the use of disinfectants to stem the spread of the virus at the house. People have resorted to washing fruits and vegetables with bleach&sanitizers, have applied household cleaning or disinfectant products to bare skin and intentionally inhaled or ingested disinfectants. But these products contain chemicals that may be harmful to your health, especially, if it not used appropriately.

Largely, the good old-fashioned cleaning with soap/ detergent and water is efficacious against COVID19. There is a growing body of evidence that shows that regular soap and water cleaning is usually enough to wash away this virus and prevent infections. Just the way we wash our hands with soap and water, our house can be kept clean in the same manner.

Disinfectants contain harmful chemicals:

Cleaning and disinfectant products need to be utilized as directed. Some disinfectants contain quaternary ammonium compounds which can trigger Asthma. It is, therefore, necessary to be cautious, especially if we have kids and elderly people at home. Bleaching can also cause respiratory, skin, and eye irritations.People should use disinfectants that include Hydrogen Peroxide, Alcohol(Isopropyl Alcohol or Ethanol), Citric Acid and Lactic Acid- but not on food items, clothes, utensils and definitely not with bare hands!

COVID spreads more from contact than surfaces:

Most experts have time and again noted that the virus spreads mainly through person-to-person contact. Effective cleaning removes germs from surfaces and disinfecting goes a step further, by killing them on the spot. But there is no need to be obsessive about cleaning surfaces.A recent Center for Disease Control and Prevention, US report said that there is no good evidence stating alternative disinfection methods, like UV radiation, LED blue lights, or sanitizing tunnels really work to kill the virus.Moreover, disinfectant without proper ventilation can cause more harm to your health than being useful. CDC’s report mentions that fogging, fumigation, and other such theatrical performances of industrial cleanliness can easily do more harm than good, when it comes to human health.This also because fogging at the levels needed to truly nip viruses from space, can make it difficult for people to breathe.

Here are 3 easy steps to proper cleaning and keeping your house, yourself and your family safe:

Use soap water to properly clean surfaces
If you use disinfectant, read the product instructions in full, so that you know how the disinfectant works and is to be applied
If using harsh chemicals to deep clean, wear a mask & protective eye gear; keep this room open to enable ventilation. Children & elderly should not enter this room till after 4 days of deep cleaning
Open the windows and doors to ventilate the space as you clean the rooms

Above all, it’s more important to worry about wearing a mask in public and avoiding the person-to-person spread of COVID-19 through close contact. Stay home, stay clean and stay safe!

About the Author

Dr Sudhir Gore is the Head-Trauma & Emergency, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan

Vaccinating all above 25 years – A logical next step

By Dr Farah Ingale

The COVID 19 pandemic has put all our intelligence, scientific knowledge as well as mathematical expertise to use. All through the time, when Epidemiologists were busy dissecting the virus to understand its course of action, mathematicians have been charting strategies and models to tackle the pandemic in every aspect.

A mix of math and science: Well, this is no secret that mathematical modelling has been critical in revealing how contagious the novel Coronavirus is, how far we should stand from each other, how long an infected person might shed the virus, how a single strain spread from China to Europe to New York and then burst across globe and how to ‘flatten the curve’ to save millions of lives.In India, mathematical modelling has significantly helped the ICMR and the Ministry of Health in understanding the virus pattern and more. Now these mathematic models have been utilized to plan and strategize the vaccination drive too.

In keeping with these models, the first, second and the third phase of the vaccination program were initiated and implemented in India. However, the burden of the second wave is taking us by the storm. The state of Maharashtra has been worst hit. Though COVID19 is especially lethal for those over 65yrs and those with other comorbidities such as Obesity, Diabetes, etc., and yet is spread rapidly amontst young adults who are more likely to recover, Epidemiologists, the Task force, mathematicians, and the Government is now faced with two conflicting priorities when modeling for vaccines -preventing deaths and slowing transmission.

A dual approach to tackle COVID pandemic: In the state of Maharashtra, the government was compelled to impose strict restrictions, lockdown during weekends and night curfew to tackle the crisis. The state government has been urging people to follow the norms and stay indoors to decrease transmissions. However, taking a holistic approach to this problem, Maharashtra’s CM Uddhav Thackeray has requested the Prime Minister to allow the state to provide vaccination to all people above the age of 25yrs. This is a progressive step to save as many lives as possible, stem the rising numbers and protect the healthcare system from crumbling.The suggestions make a lot of sense.

Currently the spike in the cases is seen more among younger people. Due to excessive socialization, parties, social gatherings, and offices slowly opening up, the cases among young adults have steeply risen. Of course, people above 45yrs and with comorbidities have a higher risk but, there is an urgent need to stem the growing numbers. Vaccinating everyone over 25yrs will significantly help tackle the severity of the crisis. At one end, the task force will continue providing medical aid and save lives, at the end more & more people can get vaccinated to reduce the severity and transmission rate.However, while there is a great challenge at hand, the state is geared up to tackle the situation.

We need to support the civic authorities, medical fraternity and the community at large, every progressive and safeguarded step will help further bring down the case load. It is however important to note that getting vaccinated does mean people can go about roaming without a mask. It has been noted that one may get infected after receiving both the doses, and although the severity will be quite less, non-adherence to COVID-appropriate behavior will be detrimental to these efforts. Officials are constantly urging people to follow norms and regulations- social distancing, wearing a mask and continuing hygiene practices is a must.

About the Author

Dr Farah Ingale,is the Director-Internal Medicine, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi-A Fortis Network Hospital ~

YAS ISLAND, ABU DHABI

While remaining confined to their homes for months. All people can do is dream about travelling to different exciting destinations across the globe. The outbreak of the pandemic has transformed the outlook of the people and the way they look at travel.

Gears up its Safe Travel Protocols & Covid-19 Travel-related Risk Reduction Measures

Considering the need of the hour, putting safety measures in place. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s premier leisure and entertainment hub, has geared up to welcome tourists with Safe Travel Protocols. The harmonization, coordination and digitalization of COVID-19 travel-related risk reduction measures. Including testing, tracing and travel health certificates, are essential foundations to promote safe travel.

Safety Measures Undertaken For Safe Travel on Yas island

Over the past year, Yas Island has introduced comprehensive measures on health and safety protocol. Following UAE authorities’ guidance to ensure visitors feel confident to return to the destination like nowhere else.

To ensure that the guests feel safe and secure while travelling to Yas Island. The authorities at Yas Island have undertaken extraordinary safety measures. To make sure that island sanitization, physical distancing, and capacity guidelines are up to global standards.

Thermal scanners at entry points will monitor guest temperatures and the island will take extra precautions high-traffic areas and frequent touch points with increased cleaning and disinfection practices.

Yas Island awarded coveted WTTC ‘Safe Travels’ stamp

In recognition of its advanced safety efforts, Yas Island has received the coveted WTTC ‘Safe Travels’ stamp, marking it the first destination in Abu Dhabi to receive the international honor, providing additional reassurance to visitors looking forward to experiencing Yas Island and its many offerings – all safe in the knowledge that the island is maintaining the highest standards of public health and safety.

Vaccination Drive

Demonstrating its commitment to health and wellbeing and in support of Abu Dhabi’s vaccination program. The popular destination has now seen over93% of its employees working at attractions, experiences, hotels, restaurants and retailers at Yas Island, vaccinated against COVID-19, as the Island aims to be amongstone of the first fully vaccinated holiday destinations in the world.

#TogetherAtYas

In an effort to raise awareness about the safety measures on the Island, Yas Island introduced numerous safety measures including the ‘#TogetherAtYas’ online platform which offers guests a guide to the public health and safety protocols on Yas Island, and the widely commended ‘Yas Wellness Program’,which grants guests direct access to a dedicated team of Yas Wellness ambassadors.

The Wellness Ambassadors are a team of specially trained individuals who are able to answer guests’ queries on the health and safety measures in place. In order to continually bridge guests to the Island, the Wellness Ambassadors are contactable via phone, social media, WhatsApp and email from 8am to 5pm UAE time, daily.

How can asthmatic patients stay protected during COVID times?

Dr Anshu Punjabi

The COVID19 pandemic has taken us by the storm. The most vulnerable people being those with morbidities and the elderly, but the virus can be particularly troubling for those with Asthma. Symptoms of COVID19 may be more severe and may lead to poor outcomes if people with Asthma get infected. It is important to know that currently there is no evidence of increased infection rates in those with Asthma. However, people with Asthma need to be especially diligent in protecting themselves from the virus through measures such as handwashing, double masking, and staying away from those who are sick.

Caring for Asthmatics during the pandemic: Firstly, people with Asthma need to continue taking their prescribed medications to prevent exacerbations of their Asthma. Secondly, it is vital for patients with Asthma to reduce airway inflammation and minimize the risk of exacerbations as much as possible. Thirdly, recognize different Asthma triggers and stay alert when the symptoms are getting worse. This can help patients identify when to call the doctor if they’re getting sick. Asthmatics need to follow their physician-prescribed ‘Asthma action plan’ or ask for a plan from their doctor if they don’t have one.

Here are some important questions that you may have in mind?

What to do to stay protected?

¾ Wear a mask: With the second wave raging upon us with full force, wearing a mask is the most effective way to protect ourselves. It is especially important to wear a mask if:

o You are coughing or have other respiratory symptoms

o You have been exposed to someone who may have COVID-19

o You have a family member who is sick

The new guideline for wearing a mask suggests that people should use a surgical double mask or an N-95 mask. Dispose off the surgical mask after use; if you use an N-95 mask, then it is important to use it in an appropriate manner.

Be extremely careful with nebulizers: Nebulizers are said to be very effective for treating Asthma symptoms, but it aerosolizes droplets from the airways, which are then spread into the air. This allows viruses or other microbes to be transmitted by the nebulizer. In this way, the risk of infection spread by droplets is increased as the nebulizer may send droplets further than they would naturally go through breathing. When a person with Asthma uses a nebulizer, no one else should be in the room during the treatment or for a few hours afterward. If others need to be in the room, it is best for them to wear a mask and gloves.

Can COVID leave people with asthma?Well, there is no evidence that COVID19 leads to the development of Asthma in people. However, many patients having a long-term impact of COVID may experience respiratory problems for a few months even after recovery.

Can asthma inhalers prove to be beneficial?Scientists and medical professionals are looking for different ways and means to contain the situation. There are some studies that suggest medical inhalers used by asthmatic patients can reduce the replication of SARS-CoV-2 in Lung cells and limit the risk of hospitalization in COVID patients. According to the study conducted by the University of Oxford, a common drug used to treat Asthma can help fasten the process of recovery in COVID19 patients. Another study published in The Lancet journal found that inhaled Glucocorticoids can reduce the risk of severe COVID and hospitalization. However, a clinical trial is underway, and we need to wait until conclusive data is evidenced.

How can I differentiate between COVID, asthma, or seasonal allergies?Well, some symptoms are similar between these respiratory illnesses. However, COVID has some typical symptoms:

¾ Fever

¾ Chills

¾ Cough

¾ Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

¾ Feeling tired and weak

¾ Muscle or body aches

¾ Headache

¾ New loss of taste or smell

¾ Sore throat

¾ Stuffy or runny nose

¾ Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting

¾ Pinkeye

¾ Painful blue or Purple lesions (such as a sore or bruise on toes also called as COVID toes)

¾ Hives or rashes

It is important to note that respiratory illnesses may worsen Asthma, so continue taking your Asthma control medicines. If you have a fever and a cough or notice increased use of your inhaler medications, call your doctor.

About the Author

Dr Anshu Punjabi, is the Consultant-Pulmonologist & Sleep Medicine Expert, Fortis Hospital, Mulund

INNISFREE X GUNEET VIRDI X NYKAA introduces a limited edition mini bestseller duo

#MiniDuoKit #innisfreeIndia

innisfree, the Korean naturalism brand from Jeju island in association with celebrity makeup artist Guneet Virdi and India’s largest online retail store Nykaa. Presents a one-of-a-kind, limited edition Mini Bestseller Duo Kit. The kit features two of innisfree’s bestsellers in exclusive deluxe size packaging. Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum (30ml) and innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2x, (20ml).

Made with Green Tea Tri-biotics, innisfree’s iconic Green Tea Seed Serum. Helps take care of dehydrated pH unbalanced skin due to loss of hydration. Its lightweight formula will absorb rapidly into the skin without leaving any stickiness. Consisting of a balanced blend of Jeju green tea extract and green tea seed oil. These ingredients work together to help maintain the skin’s oil to moisture balance to deliver moisture to dehydrated skin.

Formulated with Jeju Volcanic Clusters & Spheres, innisfree’s Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2x is a multi action rinse-off clay mask. This cools on contact, absorbs excess oil for visibly smaller pores, all while helping to improve the overall texture and look of the skin.

The kit promises to take care of your skin during the summers and is the perfect combo that will leave your skin feeling soft, supple and healthy.

Price: INR 999/-
Available on: www.nykaa.com

Le Creuset

From the Signature Cast-Iron collection in Flame and Marseille Blue to the vibrant Cherry Red and Ultraviolet, with complementing products in the Stoneware collection. The Toughened Non-Stick, Bakeware and 3-ply Stainless Steel, there is something in each category that complements different cooking preferences. These collections have been carefully crafted to make an ideal partner in the kitchen and are available in a wide range of colors. These can complement every kitchen design and suit all cooking requirements.

Le Creuset is famed for its world-class innovations in luxury cookware products. The premium quality of the product maintains its reputation as the most coveted brand for kitchen essentials. Their vision is to unify luxury and functionality. The quintessential French cookware brand is perfect to add that spark of vibrancy to every kitchen. The stylish and useful cookware is perfect for every home and is sure to be useful many times over to cook delicious experiences.

About Le Creuset:

Established in 1925, Le Creuset stands tall in the league of cookware brands worldwide. Its premium quality and world-class innovations have allowed it to carve a niche for itself in the industry. Its exquisite range covers stoneware, textiles and kitchen essentials. All of which are made available by Le Creuset in vibrant colors. Among the highlights are the enameled cast iron cookware, multi-ply stainless steel, toughened non-stick, and bakeware, along with its outstanding range of wine accessories. With leading chefs as loyal customers, the brand has proved the serviceability of its durable and versatile range of products.

Available at:

Website- https://www.le-creuset.in/

Amazon- https://www.amazon.in/s?me=A3P3QEWZC3VXH7&marketplaceID=A21TJRUUN4KGV

Gifting ideas from D’mart Exclusif

Mothers-Day-Gifting-from-D-Mart-Exclusif-1

Mother’s Day is about to come. On this special day, your gifts can not only brighten the day. But also help hard working mothers who love you so much and make your lifestyle friendly. So, to make this day extra special for your mother. D’mart Exclusif has come up with special gifting ideas for Mother’s Day.

D’Mart Exclusif has become the epitome of fusion gifting with magnificent pieces. The customization and personalization at D Mart Exclusif is sure to leave one spellbound! Each component of D Mart Exclusif comes with an attached utility quotient allowing the receiver to keep using her gift, bounding you with the special memories it brings back.

Price Range– Rs 2000 – Rs 20,000

Available At – Dolphin D 3,104 / 10, MG Road, Sultanpur, New Delhi

Breathe fresh air indoors

Trivector Biomed LLP, the official distributor of Novaerus, has launched rental options for Protect 200, suitable for residential use fresh air.

People now spend 80–95% of their time indoors fighting the global pandemic (COVID-19). By inhaling more than 10 m3 of indoor air per day. It is said that can be up to 10 times more polluted than outside air. By getting exposed to pollutants (volatile organic compounds and microorganisms). Which may lead to infectious diseases, asthma, allergies, headaches, and irritation. Therefore, it is important to provide an air disinfectant solution that has a major health. And wellness benefit of monitoring your indoor quality.

This product can be placed on any surface. Likewise, plugs into any outlets using simple plug. And play operations and comes with the option to wall mount. This device is designed to actively clean and improve air quality in small spaces such as kitchens, bedrooms, study rooms (with an area of 80-100 square ft).

Novaerus-Protect-200 Breathe fresh air indoors

The portable unit comes with low maintenance. Is highly effective for rapid or continuous infection control, odour mitigation, and particle reduction and received validation from 30 international medical institutions.

Further, India is still struggling with the invisible problem of (outdoor) air pollution and the COVID-19 pandemic. It is imperative that we monitor indoor air to keep our family safe and healthy. Trivector Biomed LLP is the official distributor of Novaerus Protect 200 for purchase or rental.

Price: On request (rental prices starts INR 700)

Where to buy/rent:www.trivectorbiomed.com

Celebrate this Mother’s Day with Rangriti

As we all know Mother’s Day is about to come, It’s the perfect occasion to appreciate your mother for giving her the best gift. To do so, the celebratory plans on this special day must include pampering your mom with the collection of Rangriti. Rangriti’s summer kurti is the most unique gift as unique as your mother.

The collection will bring a transformation from the traditional look to a more contemporary chic style statement. This collection features fresh unique colour that will instantly brighten up your wardrobe.

The collection will also comprise of wide range of beautiful kurtas, kurtis, Anarkalis, churidars, pallazzos, skirts and dupattas in pleasing prints, colors and patterns which will aim at bringing freshness, variety & style to make the celebration even more colourful with your loving mum.

Available At –

All EBO’S and MBO’S

Flipkart, Amazon,Myntra, Ajio,Tata Cliq,Nykaa Fashion, Snapdeal

Website – www. Rangriti.com

An Ode to Humanity by Daler Mehndi

ON THE OCCASION OF 400TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF SRI GURU TEGH BAHADUR JI. DALER MEHNDI STARTS DAILY PRAYER SESSIONS ON HIS FACEBOOK & YOUTUBE PAGES TO HELP BEAT ANXIETY AND ALIGN WITH THE DIVINE POWER.

~ Celebrating the 400th birth anniversary of the ninth Guru. Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji – the protector of humanity, with Salok Mahalla 9 | Jo Sukh Ko Chaahe Sadaa.
~ This marks the start of live Prayer streaming sessions every morning. And evening to help everyone anchor themselves during these uncertain times.

To spread a positive outlook towards life in the midst of the Pandemic, Indian pop Icon Daler Mehndi. Encourages all to PRAY for those who are suffering and their families. Marking the 400th Birth Anniversary of the Ninth Guru, the HIND ki Chadar, Shrisht ki Chadar – Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib. Daler Mehndi has started daily live streaming sessions ‘Rooh Se Raab Tak’ on 1st May 2021. Which will continue till 15 May 2021 starting at 7 am -8 am, and evening 7 pm – 8 pm. He urges everyone to celebrate by meditating, lighting up diyas, connecting with our soul. And aligning with the Divinity, praying hard for these trying times, asking for peace for the souls that have left us.

Moreover

These live prayers will be an hourly session on his YOUTUBE and FACEBOOK page. And will continue every day with morning and evening sessions where various artists will participate in Pray for healing. With people getting anxious about the ongoing pandemic. These Live sessions will be Encouraging and motivating people, a small effort. To make sure that people indulge in mental rejuvenation. Gratitude and relax their mind and body. The first step towards health is a balanced, happy, mindful mind. His team is open to anyone who is willing to collaborate with them. And wants to use this platform for singing or reciting prayers. People can reach out to his team at mails@dalermehndi.com

As we sail through these challenging times, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s 400th Prakash Purab (Illumination Day) comes to our rescue. Celebrating his teachings, Daler Mehndi launched his new song ‘Jo Sukh Ko Chahe Sadaa’ which is a strong mantra with 57 shlokas authored by Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur. The road map to have a ‘Spiritual Immunity’ is to constantly be in GRATITUDE. Salok Mahalla 9 centres our consciousness, makes us reflect, if we follow the directions, Life becomes joyous. If we learn from the words- JO SUKH KO Chahe Sada – whoever wants eternal bliss – Saran Raam Kee Leh – run take sanctuary, a refuge under Ram. Kaho Nanak Sun Re Mana – Nanak says Listen O Mind! – Durlabh Manukh Deh – this human body is extremely rare.

Talking about the Live prayer session, singing icon Daler Mehndi said, “I have lost my very close family members and friends to COVID just like many other people. But instead of losing hope let us shift our minds from fear to Fearlessness. Together We Can do it. We should empathise, pray for all, Trust and Surrender, Be more mindful, Pause and Process your thoughts and feelings, check if they are in alignment with the Divine, if not, start over, We should pay our Gratitude to the supreme power”.

He adds that people nowadays are not even aware of the value of the rare precious gift

– our Human Body. Only if we were to acknowledge ourselves, teach our kids how durlabh (rare) our human body, life and the mind is – only then, we will be able to take care of it and only then will make well-informed choices and thus be better people, then a better society, a nation and a world. We are reminded of the words of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Guru –
Guru Tegh Bahadur Simariyai – Meditating on Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib ji
Ghar Nau Nidh Aawe Dhaye – we receive the 9 treasures, (of which Great Physical Health is one and the riches of the world ) – Oneness with the Divine
Sabh Thaayee Hoye Sahaaye – we get the support – Right Here Right Now

Our parents or grandparents had experienced partition, wars etc. Today we all are experiencing the greatest churning of all times suffering, pain, deaths but we also are getting an opportunity to experience ONENESS- coming together as one big community – HUMANITY.