Dr. Dheeraj Bansal’s Third Interaction with Radio Guyana on COVID-19

On April 6, 2020, Radio Guyana 89.5 FM has interviewed Dr. Dheeraj Bansal, the Dean of College of Medicine, Texila American University, for the third time. In the series of interviews, this time, the discussion was to shed light on the importance of wearing a mask.Dr. Dheeraj has clearly explained why we should wear a mask.

Here is the transcription of the interview with valuable information that every one of us should know to safeguard ourselves and our loved ones from the life-threatening COVID-19.

[General Discussion:Mask should be made with 100% and should be tight-fitted. Avoid touching your mask. Mask should be worn at all times once you are out in the public. Any type of mask isf fine as the mask protects against the virus. The N95 mask protects against all viruses, and these are used mainly by the health professionals as they are in the hospital settings and are at more risk of being infected.

Dr. Dheeraj again encouraged the public not to panic and remain calm. Everyone has to understand that this is a new virus. We still do not understand how the virus acts in a different environment as the virus is still mutating. Dr. Bansal Dheerajstressed the importance of adhering to the advice issued by the WHO and the MOPH.

The mask should cover your nose and mouth at all times. Dr. Bansal also indicated to wear protected eyewear. However, the priority is to protect your nose and mouth as this is where the virus enters the respiratory system.]

What is the risk for persons with Diabetics and Cancer?

• Your immune system plays an important role in combating the COVID 19. These persons have a comprised immune system;and the risk of complications is greater; and these persons should take all necessary precautions.

How valid are home remedies?

• We haven’t had any clinical trials proven to treat COVID 19. However, we have had different hums about using lemon tea, soups warm liquid. These things are not going to hurt you in anyway. You can continue to use them. These might not be valid treatments for the virus.

When I wear a mask, my nose becomes itchy.

• This will be uncomfortable for the first time. Please embrace the idea of wearing a mask.

Can I wash my mask?

• Yes, you can wash your mask. Wash your mask with soap and water and leave it in the sun for 3 to 4 hours.

[Advice: Things to do when returning home:

• Wash your fruits and vegetables.
• Put your clothing in the sun for some time after returning home.
• Take a shower upon returning home.]

How do I protect a baby?

Use a baby towel to cover the baby’s nose and mouth if you have to take the baby out.

Use a baby towel to cover the baby’s nose and mouth if you have to take the baby out.

[Things we know about the virus:

• Firstly, the virus spreads by droplets.New development, according to the World Health Organization,the COVID-19 is now an aerosol, which means the virus can stay for some time in the air. This is why persons are encouraged to wear a mask.
• Secondly, the virus is heat sensitive. This is why we should drink warm liquids.]

What about reinfection?

We do not know how the virus works. The persons who have been infected developed an immunity to the virus.

[Dr. Bansal encourages everyone to take all the necessary precautions.]

Is it true Mmalaria treatment chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are proven to treat COVID 19?.

Given the fact that Guyana has 29 confirmed cases, what should we expect to happen over the next two weeks?

• The next two weeks are going to be very crucial.Iit requires everyone to practice teamwork, and it is very important for everyone to follow the instructions given to practice social distancing, proper hygiene, and most importantly STAY AT HOME.

[Dr. Bansal indicated that his personal recommendations is that everyone should treat this as stage 3. Meaning community transmission is happening since we do not know who is infected as persons can be asymptomatic. Again, Dr. Bansal stresses the importance of adhering to the necessary precautionary measures.

Advice:Communicate with family and friends, read a book, get creative, listen to music,and stay in a positive state of mind, and.Start start meditation asthese theseare just a few exercises to promote a positive mindset.

Dr. Dheeraj indicated,that “at TAU, we have commenced online classes for our students in all semesters, and students have real-time interactions with faculties”.

Dr. Dheeraj asked that persons share their experienceswith how they are coping so it can we share with every. Since what might work for one may not work for the other, information sharing is important.

If persons are wearing masks and gloves, please ensure that mask and gloves are properly disposed of.]

How do special needs kids wear a mask?

• With special needs kids, they do not leave their premises. If they do have to go out, then use the mask that you tie at the back of the head since these will be a bit harder for the mask to move around.

[Dr. Bansal encouraged teachers to make small videos and share them online so that the kids can see their teachers.

Final Recommendations: We do not know everything about this virus. Dr. Bansal encouraged the viewers to practice proper hygiene and social distancing. Build your immune system. Don’t panic, take the necessary precautions, and remain calm. Wearing masksonce when you are leaving your home. STAY AT HOME.]

Dr. Dheeraj’s insights on wearing a mask should be passed on to everyone. Encourage people on your way to wear the mask by explaining its necessity in this testing time. Negligence of any advice would cause a serious threat to the entire human community.

Stay home; stay hygiene; stay safe!