While it’s been almost a year since we’ve been battling COVID-19, the danger remains as high as ever.
Reports of a new virus strain have sent many of us worrying again, reminding us that we can never let our guard down in the middle of a pandemic. Pregnant women and new mothers, in particular, may feel especially vulnerable due to the fact that not all disinfectants are safe for them and their children. Just how does one go about preparing or taking care of a new baby amid the modern world’s most widespread pandemic? Here are some tips from medical experts and groups to help you cope with the challenges of the new normal and a new baby.
Clean vigorously
While they are often used interchangeably, cleaning and disinfecting are actually two different terms. According to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, cleaning removes germs and other impurities with the use of soap and water. Disinfecting, meanwhile, kills germs and bacteria using chemicals.
Generally speaking, pregnant women can clean their homes without having any cause for worry. To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other microbes, wipe frequently touched surfaces such as tables, handles, floor tiles, light switches and toilets with Department of Health-approved household cleaning products. Remember to read the labels first on the products to determine their proper usage and recommended amounts. Never mix chemicals together.
Clean and disinfect your home to ensure your family’s safety
Disinfect cautiously
Seventy percent alcohol solutions are considered the standard in killing germs, including the new coronavirus. This is safe to use on toys, cribs and other nursery items provided that they are dried off and wiped down completely.
Use diluted bleach to wash plastic, metal and rubber items which can withstand water and soap. Wipe off any dust particles first on the item and soak it in a solution consisting 1/3 cup of bleach and a gallon of water for five minutes. After soaking, thoroughly rinse the item and let it dry before allowing it to be used again by the baby.
If you’re pregnant and wondering what chemicals to use when cleaning, err on the side of caution. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that pregnant women should avoid pet medication, cat litter, lead-lined items, pesticides and BPA plastics as much as possible. According to the same group, most cleaning products are usually safe to use provided that they are used as directed. It is still advisable, however, to limit one’s exposure to such substances. It is recommended to wear gloves and even a face mask while cleaning to limit your exposure to any toxic substances. Crack open a window or door as well to minimize the inhalation of fumes.
While vaccines are slowly being distributed to the masses,
there is no confirmed study
yet as to its effects on pregnant women and newborns.
Make wipes your best friend
Wipes have always been loved by new moms especially when it comes to diaper duties. When it comes to disinfecting, these handy tissues can also do wonders to ensure your and your child’s safety.
Use 70 percent solution alcohol wet wipes to clean off frequently touched surfaces and items. You can use these on your personal belongings or public furniture.
Remember though that these wipes are not intended for babies. Make sure to distinguish your baby wipes from your alcohol wipes as the latter can irritate your baby’s skin when used incorrectly.
Social distancing is the best way to protect your children during this health crisis.
Practice safety with a newborn
While pregnant women and newborns are considered a vulnerable group amid the pandemic, the safety measures they can take up to protect themselves from the virus remain the same with the standard. Frequent hand washing and social distancing remain the best defenses against the coronavirus.
If you’re pregnant and about to give birth, it’s best to avoid going to public places nowadays unless absolutely necessary. Hospitals, however, should remain an important part of your prenatal care as these medical facilities are still your best partners when it comes to health.
If you just gave birth, keep your baby at home as much as possible. While relatives might be excited with the arrival of a new member of the family, discourage people from coming over to meet the baby. Don’t take the baby to other people’s homes as much as possible to limit contact with others. If someone at home is sick, keep the baby away from him or her as a precaution.
When you do have to take the baby out, practice social distancing. It is not advisable to put a mask or covering over your baby’s face as this presents a risk of suffocation. Instead, keep your child at least three meters or six feet away from other people. Also encourage everyone to wash their hands or disinfect with alcohol first before coming into contact with the baby. Keep your nursery clean and disinfect regularly.
Our babies signify new hope amid the COVID-19 pandemic
Stay safe
While there is no surefire way to be protected from the COVID-19 virus, you can do a lot to arm yourself and your family against the disease. Adhere to the recommended hygienic practices and don’t let your guard down. While vaccines are slowly becoming available to us, there is no guarantee yet that these formulas are safe to be administered on pregnant women or newborn children. As with any other disease, erring on the side of prevention is better than hoping for a cure.
Other than these safety reminders, remember to enjoy your moments with your newborn child. If there’s anything that we learned during this pandemic, it’s that life is precious. A newborn represents hope in a better future, and he or she can provide extreme happiness that no virus can take away from you.
Sources: Josh Willink, cottonbro, Alena Shekhovtcova and Emma Buaso via Pexels.com, https://kidshealth.org, www.cdc.gov, https://utswmed.org