Despite the vaccines giving us hope for things to go back to normal, the emergence of new Covid variants will always remain a cause of concern. Covid-19 has changed our lives in many different ways. When going out to public places, we need to pay extra attention to our hygiene to reduce our exposure to disease-carrying germs, especially for the elderly. We have compiled a list of 5 must have items to keep you and your loved ones safe this pandemic.

1. Masks

Masks are mandatory everywhere in Singapore as it is one of the key ways to reduce the spread of Covid.

Respokare Anti-Viral Mask

The RespoKare Anti-Viral Mask is a mask that can inactivate the SARS and MERS viruses within 1 minute and inactivates 99.99% of 15 influenza viruses within 5 minutes. It is very effective against eliminating the transmission of infectious viruses such as Covid-19 with its active anti-viral layer that helps to kill virus cells.

However, the right mask is not the only important factor. It is extremely important to wear a well-fitting mask. Wearing the right mask the right way protects you from inhaling the virus, and also prevents you from spreading any potential virus to the people around you. Make sure that there are no gaps around the edges of your mask. Your mask slipping down under your nose as you talk is a sign that a better-fitting mask is needed. One option is to double up with a surgical-type mask underneath and a tighter cloth mask on top.

One important tip to note is to always carry extra masks around when going out. This would come in handy if your mask gets wet or dirty.

2. Hand Sanitiser

Going to public places exposes you to germs and viruses that can cause illnesses. Therefore, it is very important to keep your hands clean, especially before and after meals. The best and most effective method is washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. However, this may not always be possible. The second-best option would be using hand sanitizers.

Anios Disinfecting Handrub Gel 85 NPC (30ml and 500ml)

Hand sanitisers are an essential item to have this pandemic. We come in contact with multiple items when we are outside such as railings, lift buttons, car handles, and MRT and bus handles. It is a good practice to keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol in our bags and use them after touching such high-contact surfaces.

3. Disinfectant Wipes

Clinell Universal Non-Alcohol Disinfecting Wipes (UK)

It is good to keep a disinfectant with you for travelling, office-use or home-use. Occasionally wiping down surfaces that you tend to touch a lot such as mobile phones and car seats is a good habit to develop. These high-contact surfaces are commonly breeding grounds of bacteria and viruses. Having some disinfectants in your bag or car is a good way to help contain the spread of viruses such as Covid-19.

4. Thermometer

Rossmax Oral Thermometer with Flexible Tip TG380                            BION Non-Contact Temple Thermometer HB500

Apart from hygiene, it is also very important to monitor your health regularly so you can take the necessary steps to protect you or your loved ones and to get help immediately. Our body temperature is a good indicator of a large number of diseases. Fever is a common symptom of Covid-19. Having a temperature of 38°C and above is a big cause of concern.

5. Oximeter

One of the most serious consequences of Covid-19 is “silent pneumonia”, whereby the damage to the lungs caused by the Covid-19 infection causes the oxygen in the blood to drop to dangerously low levels, leading to very serious consequences if left untreated. This is especially dangerous as it may happen before any symptoms of Covid-19 start to appear, and even when the individual feels generally well.

Rossmax Fingertip Pulse Oximeter                                                                     Rossmax Fingertip Pulse Oximeter SB100

Additional artery condition reading!

Oximeters are devices that help to track blood oxygen levels so such cases can be detected early. Especially for the elderly who are more vulnerable to the virus, it is extremely important to regularly monitor their blood oxygen levels. 

For the best results, place the oximeter on the right hand’s middle finger. According to the World Health Organization’s definition:

95% - 100%: Normal

Under 94%: Requires evaluation by a doctor

Under 90%: Requires immediate medical attention

View our full Covid-19 essentials collection HERE.