ASIDE from strengthening the immune system, taking care of one’s mental health is also important in the fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
This was the realization of Edwin Jumao-as, head of the Mandaue City Legal Enforcement Unit (MCLEU), who recovered from Covid-19 infection.
Jumao-as was one of the Mandauehanons who had tested positive in the rapid antibody testing last May. He was then swabbed and the result came out positive.
He was admitted to the isolation area of Mandaue City to separate him from his family.
Before he contracted the new coronavirus, Jumao-as had been working on the frontline, helping Mandaue City slow the spread of Covid-19.
As a frontliner, Jumao-as could not avoid coming into contact with people.
Jumao-as and all his staff at MCLEU were tasked to ensure that all directives from the local government would be implemented such as the proper wearing of masks, observing the social distancing protocol, wearing of quarantine passes in public places and clearing operations of stalls along sidewalks.
While in isolation, Jumao-as was told that his family experience some discrimination.
He said discrimination could bring added burden and fear to Covid-19 patients, weakening their morale and their immune system.
Jumao-as said he strengthened his mental health by not minding negative thoughts.
He cleared his mind and urged himself to recover from the disease.
Jumao-as boosted his immune system by eating fruits with a high content of Vitamin C. He also exercised and practiced tuob, or steam inhalation. Tuob is a traditional remedy for flu symptoms, however, the Department of Health does not endorse the use of tuob as a treatment for Covid-19.
He said he also prayed and asked God for guidance and recovery.
On June 15, 2020, the result of his confirmatory swab came out negative.
Jumao-as is now back on the frontline. As one of the recoveries, he encouraged other Covid-19 patients to never lose hope. (KFD)