For people fortunate enough to be able to stay home, being stuck inside 24 hours a day for weeks on end is unlike anything any of us has ever experienced. It’s a whole new set of stressors and unique experiences — on top of the very real cabin fever that can set in. But as difficult as sheltering in place can be, remember that it’s all about keeping you, your loved ones and your community safe.

First, remember that it’s OK to feel stressed and unproductive; give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. Because we’re spending so much time online, it can feel like you’re falling behind — why haven’t I finished that book and knitted that scarf and cooked that feast yet?! — “but staying inside and attending to basic needs is plenty.” And if you have children, acknowledge that these changes to daily life are difficult.  Among those basic needs is organising and cleaning your home, both vastly different tasks than they used to be.

When going outside, be extra cautious

You can do your part to help your community and the world. Do not get close to other people.

This is called “social distancing” or “physical distancing,” and is basically a call to stand far away from other people, even if you have no underlying health conditions or coronavirus symptoms. Experts believe the coronavirus travels through droplets, so limiting your exposure to other people is a good way to protect yourself. Avoid public transportation when possible, limit nonessential travel, work from home and skip social gatherings. You can go outside, as long as you avoid being in close contact with people.

It’s not sexy, but it works.

Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands. That splash-under-water flick won’t cut it anymore. A refresher: Wet your hands and scrub them with soap, taking care to get between your fingers and under your nails. Wash for at least 20 seconds (or about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice), and dry. Make sure you get your thumbs too.

With children, keep calm, carry on and get the flu shot

The good news is that cases in children have been very rare.

Right now, there’s little reason for parents to worry about their kids the experts say; coronavirus cases in children have been very rare.  The flu vaccine is a must, as vaccinating children is good protection for older people. And take the same precautions you would during a normal flu season: Encourage frequent hand-washing, move away from people who appear sick, and get the flu shot.