Don’t listen to news all the time, advises Govt

JAMMU: With the panic settling among the residents in view of rising coronavirus cases, the union territory administration today advised people to cut down on listening to news all the time as it may be upsetting and spend quality time with family.
A daily media bulletin issued on Monday urged the public to stay indoors, strictly follow social-distancing measures, disclose recent travel history to COVID-19 affected countries and report any contact with positive cases voluntarily.
“Keep yourself busy in doing small activities at home to reduce boredom like gardening, cleaning and cooking etc. Cut down on listening to news all the time as it may be upsetting,” the bulletin reads.
“Spending quality time with family and getting involved in family discussions while staying at home during this period will help reduce anxiety and distress. Try to connect with your family members & loved ones through phone call or video call if they stay far from you,” the bulletin says in its advice to people.
The bulletin called on people to engage in recreational activities like solving puzzles, playing board games, listening to music, reading etc to reduce boredom.
“It is important to be physically active. Simple stretching exercises, simple yoga postures, walking indoors or meditation will be beneficial not only for your physical health but also mental health,” it said, advising the general public to avoid unnecessary visit to hospitals.
“In case anyone develops fever, cough and difficulty in breathing, seek medical advice promptly by calling on COVID-19 helpline numbers so that they can be provided correct medical advice and directed to the right health facility, if needed,” the bulletin said.
It said the general public can avail of free ambulance services 24x7 in case of any emergency at their doorsteps by calling on toll free No. 108.
Pregnant women and sick infants can avail of free ambulance services by dialing toll-free No. 102.