Resources sourced for this compilation:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html  
https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/coronavirus-disease
https://www.oie.int/en/scientific-expertise
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/covid-19/questions-answers 


Do I need to wear a mask at all times even inside the house?

No. You only need to wear a mask inside if any of your family members have symptoms of cough, fever cold and breathlessness.

 
Can I make my own cloth mask? Will it prevent me from getting infected?

Yes, you can make your own cloth mask. Once stitched, it should be washed thoroughly with detergent and sun dried completely. Avoid touching the front of the mask as it might contain microorganisms if you have come in contact with infected or suspected patients.


What should I do if any of my family members show symptoms of cough, fever and cold?

• Use separate room for the sick family members, as much as possible.
• Advise them to wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing; after going to the bathroom; and before eating.
• Other members should maintain at least one metre distance, and avoid using same utensils, towels, bedsheets etc.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles).
• Take them to the emergency department only if any of their symptoms worsens.

What are the precautions I should take when I go out to get grocery, vegetables etc?

Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Clean your groceries with detergent or soap water. Wash milk packet covers or home delivered food items especially if it has been handled by people from outside your home.


Do I have to use a sanitiser when I am at home?

No, simple hand wash with soap for 20 seconds is sufficient.


Can I eat food immediately after using sanitiser?

No. Always wash your hands with water before eating as sanitizers contain chemical which should not be ingested.


Can I order takeaways for my meals?

Yes, you can order takeaways. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water both before and after accepting the takeaway.


Can I make homemade sanitisers? Does it kill the corona virus? 

Both, the Government of India and WHO DO NOT recommend making sanitisers at home as they require chemicals to be mixed in a clean and sterile condition. Few homemade sanitisers shown in internet containing Aloe Vera, essential oils but these DO NOT have any effect on the virus.


Do I need to take any special care when I handle food in the kitchen? 

To date food has not been identified as a route for transmission of the virus. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling food prior to cooking. In addition, good care has to be taken when handling raw meat, cook it thoroughly and clean the benchtops with soap and hot water thoroughly after the raw meat handling is completed. Also when you are sick, do not be involved in handling of food in the kitchen.


Can I go to a beauty parlour during this season?

No, you should not go for any beauty treatment at this time as there is close interaction for a prolonged time, between the client and the beautician, which is highly discouraged.


Can I have house pets in the house, especially if I have a COVID patient at home?

Yes. Currently, there is limited scientific evidence with regard to the role of human transmitting to pets. 
However, because animals and people can sometimes have similar diseases, it is still advised that people who are sick with COVID-19 have limited contact with pet animals.


What is the risk of me getting COVID -19 from my house pet? 

There are different types of corona virus that can infect animals and can be transmitted to animals and human. There is no evidence of transmission from pet to human, though there have been isolated reports of COVID-19 positive cases in animals. It is better to practice basic principles of hygiene when you interact with your home pets.


What is the risk of developing COVID-19 when I accept courier packages? 

Study has shown that the virus can survive up to 24 hours on cardboard, under controlled settings. There is no case reported of any transmission through handling packages.  So it is recommended to use an alcohol based hand rub/sanitiser/ thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before accepting the package from the courier supplier and also a second time after accepting this package from the supplier.


Can I eat non-vegetarian foods? 

Few regions in our country has advised not to eat meat or fish. However there is no scientific evidence to say to say that virus transmits through cooked meat or fish. But Do Not eat any uncooked raw meat or fish food material. If cooking meat or fish make sure it is prepared separately. Cook all raw meat sufficiently. 


Can I attend funerals during this lock down?

Funerals and cremations in the presence of max. 15 persons are allowed, subject to social distancing measures and without any exposure of the deceased body. Precautionary measures like wearing face mask, avoiding handshakes, washing hands or using alcohol based hand sanitisers should be followed.