When it comes to COVID-19 and its new variants, wheelchair users in the developing world should take special precautions in order to follow guidelines on hand-washing and social distancing.
For that reason, we have gathered resources and created this info sheet for our wheelchair recipients. (Wheelchair illustrations courtesy of Beneficial Designs.)
COVID-19 and its variants are a type of coronavirus that spreads easily through droplets from the nose or mouth of someone who has the virus. Common signs of the virus are fever, dry cough, and breathing problems, but not all people that carry COVID-19 show these signs.
You can help protect yourself and the people around you from the virus by following these tips:
- Wash your hands. Use soap and water or an alcohol-based rub for 20-30 seconds. Those who help you move around or get in/out of a wheelchair should also wash their hands before and afterward.
- Consider wearing a face mask. If a medical mask is unavailable, use another fabric covering over your nose and mouth, making sure you can breathe comfortably.
Unique precautions for wheelchair users:
- Avoid touching the tires. Your tires can be contaminated by everything they touch, everywhere they go.
- Keep your wheelchair clean. Regularly wipe down the solid surfaces of your wheelchair with soap and water or with a disinfecting spray of bleach diluted in water. (Use two tablespoons of chlorine per one liter of water.)
- Pay special attention to tires, hand rims, push handles, brakes, and arm rests. Be sure to grease the metal parts of your wheelchair to prevent rust.
Please consult your doctor or local health care professional for more information.
By doing these activities, we can slow the spread of the
virus and promote a safer, healthier environment for you
and your family.
This document is currently being translated into different languages.
Download the printable English version here.
