Health Officials continue to urge the importance of keeping the immune system as strong as possible by getting adequate sleep, exercise and a nutritious diet to fight against the COVID-19 virus.

Coordinator of Health Promotion Services in the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Ms. Ivy George says that the body can be compared to a fine-tuned machine.

“All organ systems in the body depend on each other for survival in some way or form at all times,” she explained, adding that this co-dependence maintains the physical, mental, and emotional health of a human being.

“This is why sleep is important as it allows the body to rest so it can be repaired. Adequate sleep has been linked with improved immune function,” Ms. George said.

The Health Promotion Services Coordinator explained that the amount of physical activity a person does affects their function and influences their risk of infection. She also added that the body needs the right kind of food in appropriate amounts to maintain a healthy immune system. 

“Eating a balanced diet daily allows the body to have all the nutrients it needs.  Fruits and vegetables that are high in Vitamin C help to stimulate both the production and function of white blood cells and antibodies.  In other words, Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for a healthy immune system response,” Ms. George added.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is reminding the public that the COVID-19 is highly contagious and everyone should take caution especially individuals who are high risk for infections such as the elderly; individuals with chronic diseases such as hypertension, heart disease and diabetes and those with compromised immune systems.

Persons should continue proper hand washing techniques; proper use of hand sanitisers; covering nose and mouth when having fever, cough or shortness of breath, and avoiding close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms in order to reduce risk. For more information on COVID-19 visit www.bvi.gov.vg or call the health hotline at 852-7650.