‘Tried to stay resilient amid tough times’

Vikas Jaitley (39) got infected with Covid on March 18. While he started developing the symptoms such as dry cough, phlegm in the throat and runny nose on March 17, he got himself tested on March 19. Subsequently, his reports came positive on March 23. A day after, his wife also tested positive for Covid. He not only had to take care of himself but also his wife’s. Not losing his calm, he followed all guidelines issued by the Health Department and his family doctor.

“Initially, we both were put on some medicines for 10 days. The doctors instructed us to observe home-quarantine for one week, which we strictly followed. Since, we were experiencing minor body aches and weakness, we kept ourselves isolated from our two daughters and my mother. Though fear had gripped us, we preferred to stay quiet and focused on our recovery. We shifted to the second floor of our house and set-up a small kitchen to cook our food on own. Motivating my mother and children to have patience, we remained connected with them through video calls.”

“Avoiding solid intake, we tried to increase fluids and protein in our diet. With the help of oximeter and thermometer, we regularly tracked our oxygen levels and temperature. The frequent calls by the Health Department relieved us,” said, Jaitely.

His wife Jyoti Jaitely, says, though the recovery period feels tough, anyone can tide over the virus with exercise and positivity. Even though we had body cramps, we never skipped our breathing exercise. We were in constant contact with our family doctor.

“Complete precautions should be taken but once any symptom is experienced. There is no need to generate unnecessary fear and doubts. Consult your doctor at the earliest, so that timely treatment could be started at once to prevent any unexpected serious situation. Protein-rich food and basic amenities such as proper ventilation and TV were a big boost that facilitated us in passing my time on our own. Chatting with friends and meditating is itself a big relief,” added Jaitely. A resident of the Park Avenue, Laddhewali road, Vikas Jaitely is a railway employee and his wife is a government school teacher.