Ways You’re Catching Covid Without Knowing It — Eat This Not That

By Ghuman

Introduction

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way we live our lives. We are all trying to stay safe and healthy, but it can be difficult to know how to protect ourselves from the virus. Unfortunately, there are some ways you may be catching Covid-19 without even knowing it. In this article, we will discuss some of the ways you may be unknowingly catching Covid-19 and what you can do to protect yourself. We will also provide some tips on how to eat healthy during this time, so you can stay safe and healthy.

Ways You’re Catching Covid Without Knowing It — Eat This Not That

The novel coronavirus has changed the way we live our lives, and it’s important to be aware of the ways you can catch it without knowing it. Here are some of the most common ways you can catch Covid-19 without knowing it:

1. Touching Contaminated Surfaces

The virus can live on surfaces for up to three days, so it’s important to be aware of the surfaces you touch. This includes door handles, elevator buttons, and other public surfaces. Be sure to wash your hands after touching any of these surfaces.

2. Eating Contaminated Food

Food can become contaminated with the virus if it’s handled by someone who is infected. Be sure to only eat food that has been properly prepared and cooked. Avoid eating food from places that don’t have proper safety protocols in place.

3. Breathing in Contaminated Air

The virus can be spread through the air, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Avoid crowded places and wear a mask when you’re in public. Make sure to keep your distance from other people and avoid close contact.

4. Not Washing Your Hands

Washing your hands is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from the virus. Be sure to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

5. Not Practicing Social Distancing

Social distancing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of the virus. Be sure to keep at least 6 feet away from other people and avoid large gatherings. If you must be in close contact with someone, wear a mask and practice good hygiene.

Conclusion

It’s important to be aware of the ways you can catch Covid-19 without knowing it. Be sure to practice good hygiene, wash your hands often, and avoid close contact with other people. By following these simple steps, you can help protect yourself and others from the virus.

Nearly two years into the pandemic, you might think you know all the best practices necessary to avoid contracting COVID. But the Delta variant, vaccines, booster shots and the resumption of normal life have changed—and continue to change—the safety equation. Add a bit of COVID fatigue most of us are suffering from, and it’s entirely possible you might catch COVID this winter without knowing it. Here’s what science and experts say are the most common ways that could happen. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

female friends in kitchen preparing together vegetarian meal
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A new study has found that fully vaccinated people can still transmit COVID to other members of their household. Writing in the Lancet, researchers in the UK said they’ve found that fully vaccinated people, even if they have no symptoms, have a 38% chance of transmitting COVID to unvaccinated housemates, and a 25% chance of transmitting it to fully vaccinated housemates. 

Nurse gives students a vaccination in school during coronavirus pandemic
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The effectiveness of all three vaccines declines over time: One study found that the Pfizer vaccine’s effectiveness against symptomatic COVID-19 infection declined from 94% to 70% by September. (All three vaccines remain highly effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death). So if you’re in one of the approved groups for booster shots—or one of the currently three states that have authorized them for all adults—getting one can help prevent you from catching COVID-19.

RELATED: Popular Habits That Are Wrecking Your Body, Say Experts

woman in a medical mask on her face during the pandemic outdoors
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Remember that a face mask should cover your nose and mouth at all times. If you wear a mask below your nose, you can catch—or transmit—the virus readily. The CDC also recommends that you take these steps to ensure you’re wearing a mask effectively:

  • Wash your hands before putting on your face mask
  • Fit the mask snugly against the sides of your face
  • Don’t put the mask around your neck or on your forehead
  • Don’t touch the mask; if you do, wash your hands

RELATED: The #1 Cause of Aging Poorly, Says Science

Brunette woman wearing a KN95 FPP2 mask.
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Cloth masks may make you feel more protected against COVID than you actually are. Because the highly contagious Delta variant now accounts for almost all new COVID cares in the US, experts now recommend that you wear a high-quality face mask—such as an N95 or KN95— or a surgical mask for the most protection against the virus. An August study found that surgical masks are 95% effective at filtering virus particulates, while cloth masks are only about 37% effective.

RELATED: Everyday Habits That Lead to Aging

Middle aged couple at an airport during coronavirus pandemic.
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If you’re traveling by air this holiday season, make sure you’re not being vigilant against COVID only on the plane. The airport itself—with its long, crowded lines—is the bigger risk for catching COVID. “Air travel requires spending time in security lines and airport terminals, which can bring you in close contact with other people and frequently touched surfaces,” says the CDC. If you’re heading to the airport, wear a mask at all times, and socially distance whenever possible. And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.