The coronavirus is a group of related viruses that cause diseases in mammals and birds. In humans, coronaviruses cause respiratory tract infections that can be mild, similar to the common cold or severe lung infection requiring hospitalization. During the current pandemic, in order to contain the spread of COVID-19 public health officials have issued the following guidelines for individuals:
- Frequent hand washing
- People returning from travels are required to self-isolate for fourteen days
- Keep social distance of 6 feet
- To avoid sharing household items, including dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils.
In Sikhi we are also given maryada (guidelines) to follow when we greet others, prepare, serve and eat our meals. We are reminded to wash our hands before touching anything in the kitchen.
We are taught to cover our heads and wash our hands when cooking to keep food preparation hygienic. When serving food to avoid touching dishes that are being used for eating in order to prevent contamination. We do not share drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, etc.
When we greet each other, we fold our hands instead of hand shake, hence breaking the chain of contamination.
These days masks are being worn to prevent the spread of aerosols. Hazooria worn by Gursikhs is another example of hygienic measure. Hazooria is used to cover the mouth and nose when doing sewa hence preventing spread of aerosols.
We have been given this valuable knowledge because it helps prevent germs from spreading If we follow maryada, we can learn to provide better life, health and sanitation for all.