The monsoons can wreak havoc on our health if we don't take enough care. And with the ongoing pandemic, it has become even more important to boost our immunity to protect ourselves and our families from falling sick. Health tips like sipping warm water through the day, cleaning hands frequently, wearing a mask and not touching your face have become a part of our lives. Not only do they help you protect yourself from falling sick, but also reduce the risk of illness in older people, children and those with underlying health conditions.

As more people begin to venture out as restrictions start easing, there's the added possibility that the rate of infection will increase. Below are some tips that will help you stay fit during these times.

First and foremost, wash your hands regularly with soap and water –and do it properly. Take care to wash the backs of your hands, in-between fingers and under nails for around 20 seconds before rinsing off. If you need help counting, you can sing Happy Birthday twice! Follow this handwashing technique to make sure you get rid of any germs and prevent the spread of any illness.

If you are out and about, it can be hard to access water and soap regularly, so carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser with you and use it regularly. Proven to be effective at killing germs, sanitising your hands can help prevent the spread of coronavirus infection. In case you don't have hand sanitiser, be mindful of what you touch and keep your hands away from your face. If you have to sneeze or cough, use your elbow.

Considering how fast COVID-19 spreads, this is one of the most important health tips you will come across. Touching your face is an easy way to transmit bacteria, so avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose in particular. If you must touch your face, wash your hands thoroughly before. You can also stop yourself from touching your face by following orders and wearing a mask.

To curb the spread of coronavirus in India, most states have made masks mandatory for anyone stepping out of their home. Wearing a mask can prevent the spread of coronavirus as well as other viral infections. However, in case you haven't worn a mask and feel a cough or a sneeze coming on, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow. Following these health tips can prevent you from spreading germs through droplets.

Most of us seldom disinfect our surfaces (or our devices!). Yet given how often we touch them, they can become hotspots for bacteria. With your health in your hands, it's important to use a disinfectant spray and clean regularly. Don't forget to pay extra attention to mobile phones, laptops and remote controls. If you don't have a spray, you can use alcohol-based wipes or simple soap and water mixture to clean surfaces.

Although it's no fun to have to change or cancel your plans when there’s a new virus outbreak, this is often the most sensible course of action. Avoid people with any symptoms and keep away from busy areas such as community centres and public transports unless absolutely necessary. When you do step outside, please ensure that you do so wearing a face mask and safety goggles. When you practice social distancing, you're helping curb the spread of coronavirus infection.

If you do catch a virus, having a strong immune system can help protect you. So take steps to boost your immune system by eating well, staying hydrated and getting enough sleep. Since you can follow these healthy habits from the comfort of your home, there should be no excuses.

Although it is advisable to refrain from travelling if you must travel, make sure you practice strict social distancing measures. Try to avoid using public transport as much as you can, but if you do, make sure you're well protected with a mask and safety goggles. If you happen to enter any public facility such as a lift or an escalator, try to keep a good distance from other people and avoid touching surfaces. Wash your hands or use hand sanitiser to eliminate any germs you may have picked up.

The last thing you want to do is be responsible for spreading a virus to other people. Therefore, if you have any symptoms that could be infectious, it's better to be on the safe side and stay home until you feel better. If you have any concerns about your symptoms, seek medical advice as soon as possible from a healthcare professional.

There is no better time to support yourself and your loved ones with healthcare than during a raging pandemic. Generali Central Life is here to provide support during the COVID-19 outbreak.