Important Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic brought to life the stark reality that living a healthy life requires more than just medicines. The virus compelled us to adopt lifestyle changes and think more seriously about the future we wanted to live in. While pandemics are unpredictable by nature, proper preparation and planning can help reduce our chances of contracting the virus. COVID-19 has taught us many things, all essential for living a free and healthy life ahead.

Few Lessons we Learned During the COVID-19 Pandemic:

1. The Importance of Mental Health:

We can no longer ignore the issue of mental health. There has been a steep rise in cases related to mental health in recent years. A psychiatrist in New York, Dr. Valentine Raiteri, shared in an interview that the mental health impact of the pandemic has left people feeling isolated and insecure due to long periods of change and uncertainty.

COVID-19 has served as a wake-up call for us to address our mental healthcare needs. Some expert-recommended courses of action are seeing a counsellor, taking frequent breaks to rest during work, treating yourself with self-care, and having an inclusive health insurance policy. Be informed that in most cases, health insurance benefits do not cover mental health issues. Therefore, it is time to reevaluate your choices and select a health insurance brand that covers all your mental and healthcare needs, including post-COVID-19 measures.

2. Maintain Hygiene at All Costs:

The COVID-19 pandemic has also taught us the significance of personal and communal hygiene. Even in the modern world, unsanitary habits persist due to a lack of time and resources, as well as a lack of awareness and understanding. Limiting personal contact, washing hands properly, wearing masks, and using sanitisers can protect us from many diseases, including coronavirus. UNICEF also recommends the following actions to help reduce your chances of contracting COVID-19 and other diseases:

• Avoid touching your face, and maintain a one-meter distance from everyone.
• Contrary to popular belief, it would be best if you do not cough or sneeze into your hands. 
• Wash your hands frequently, and use a good quality sanitiser with 60% alcohol. 
• Disinfect your home at regular intervals using alcoholic cleaning sprays. 

3. What We Eat Matters a Lot more than We Think it Does:

A practical and straightforward yet much-ignored method of keeping yourself and your family healthy is to eat the right food. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) says that a balanced diet is a major casualty in COVID-19. It also mentions that nearly 70% of deaths worldwide are caused by non-communicable diseases associated with diet, particularly in developing countries. From unhealthy food choices to irregular consumption timings, lousy food habits become a pain for people suffering from COVID-19. As part of a healthy diet, the body receives fluid, macronutrients such as protein, and micronutrients such as vitamins, fibre, and energy.

4. Physical Health/Fitness is a Compulsory Requisite:

Sometimes, every preventive measure can fail in a pandemic-like situation. Therefore, you must take proactive steps towards building a daily exercise regime to stay healthy. A smart lifestyle consisting of an exercise routine, and a balanced diet can help protect you from health scares like the COVID-19 pandemic. Every doctor also recommends light to moderate exercise in both pre-and post-hospitalisation cases of COVID-19.

5. Adequate Health Insurance Schemes are the Need of the Hour:

The problematic aspect of every health scare is the uncertainty of it. You never know when you may fall ill. The years past show that many health insurance claims were made during the pandemic. With the uncertainty of the situation, people had no idea how to select health insurances that could cover all bases and protect their families. People have learned from their mistakes and now understand that having more competent and highly inclusive policies with affordable health insurance premium options is vital for living carefree lives.

One such indemnity health insurance policy, specifically designed to cover hospitalisation and medical expenses incurred due to COVID-19, is called the Corona Kavach Policy. If you test positive for coronavirus, this policy covers pre-and post-hospitalisation fees, as well as domiciliary expenses, home care treatment expenses, and AYUSH treatment. Niva Bupa's Corona Kavach family floater plan is available to anyone aged 18 to 65 for themselves or their immediate families. Trusted by 29 million customers in 190 countries, Niva Bupa prides itself on providing unparalleled customer service and making insurance a quick, easy, and hassle-free process for its customers.

​Conclusion

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, frightening truths about the healthcare system and people's unhealthy lifestyle choices have come to the surface. But it has also awoken the common man's true resilience and perseverance to fight, protect, and above all, to live. It is also important to highlight that the lessons we learn from the pandemic have relevance even after the virus leaves us. Proper awareness, a balanced diet, exercise, an active lifestyle, along with a health insurance premium that covers a comprehensive set of needs for its customers, can indeed help us avoid diseases long after the pandemic is over.

FAQ

What was the biggest lifestyle change after COVID-19?

Many people started focusing on health, hygiene, and emotional well-being. Eating better, working out, and staying mentally fit became regular habits for families and individuals.

What food habits changed after the pandemic?

People started choosing fresh food over packaged meals. Homemade food became common, and the importance of balanced nutrition was finally taken seriously.

Is physical activity really useful against illness?

Yes, regular activity boosts immunity and mental strength. It also improves your stamina, which helps you recover faster from diseases like viral fever or infections.

Why is health insurance more important after COVID-19?

The pandemic has shown that medical emergencies can occur suddenly. Insurance protects your savings by covering hospital and treatment costs when they are needed most.

Can health insurance cover home treatment for viral infections?

Some plans do offer this support. You may be eligible for reimbursements or home care if hospitalisation is not advised. Always read the policy terms before buying.

Is it better to buy an individual or family floater plan?

A family floater covers all members under one sum insured and is usually more affordable than buying individual plans for each family member.