Your COVID19 close-contact quarantine camp guide
Though the number of cases has remained single-digit for a while, the COVID-19 situation is still fluctuating. As part of our effort in fighting the pandemic, we must be vigilant and pay close attention to the latest developments.
This includes being prepared and being notified to stay at a quarantine camp at short notice. Right now, anyone directly in contact with a COVID-19-infected person is subjected to quarantine in one of the designated camps.
It helps to think about what you should bring with you and be prepared for not returning home for 14 days.
Have your luggage handy
You’ll most likely be leaving at short notice, so it’s best to have everything ready at home. Though you can bring as much as you want, it’s still best to make your items count. Here are the categories of stuff we think will be useful for you.
Comfort
Consider bringing things that can make your stay more comfortable.
Slippers/flip flops
Pillows/duvets
Towels
Jacket
Coat hangers
Hairdryer
Sanitation
Though you’d be living in a clean dormitory, it never hurts to be extra prepared. Its’ your health, after all.
Clean wipes
Detergents
Disinfectant
Wiping cloths
Sponges
Personal hygiene
You’ll be living away for 14 days, so you need enough items to sustain yourself and your family.
Clothes
Underwear
Socks
Laundry powder
Toothbrush
Mug
Toothpaste
Shampoo / shower gel
Razors (for men)
Tampons (for women)
Everyday living
Life goes on, even if everything is drastically different in the camp.
Laptop
Mobile phone
Chargers
Medications if applicable
SIM card or wifi egg
Books or magazines
Extra food
You may have heard of the catering horror stories in the quarantine camps.
Cereal
Snacks
Cup noodles
Teabag or coffee powder
Here’s the good news. If you have dietary restrictions or want to be innovative, bring a hot plate with a small pot or pan. But refrain from bringing perishables and only bring what you can carry.
Once you’re in there
If you need to move into the quarantine quarters, you’ll be notified by the government. Once you’re inside, you’ll receive a WhatsApp number of a contact person who will take care of your needs. But given the complexity of the quarters and the number of requests they receive, it might take some time for them to respond and attend to you.
Inside the quarters, there is no Wi-Fi, fridge and microwave. If you’re planning to “work from home” or finish your Netflix series, you’d need a SIM card or Wi-Fi egg. You’ll receive hand soap, laundry powder, detergent, tissue paper, bed sheets, pillows, blankets, a kettle and so on. Also, you can't leave your room during your stay.
Friends can bring you food and essential items 24 hours in advance via WhatsApp. Still, you need to notify the quarters’ staff beforehand. There are also restrictions on what they can bring. For example, perishables, alcohol and tobacco are not allowed.
Times are tough, but we’re in this together as one. Stay healthy, and we can get through this. If you are looking for extra coverage and assurance, here’s our final checklist for you:
Vitamin C
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