What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is an infectious viral disease that has been declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO)^, affecting more than 1.7 crore people and claiming more than 6.6 lakh lives worldwide#. The disease is highly contagious and the only way to prevent catching it is to limit your interaction with people and practice social distancing. As a result, countries around the world have imposed lockdowns to protect their citizens. India too, with over 5 lakh active cases and more than 35 thousand deaths, is currently under a lockdown#.
What are the common symptoms of COVID-19?
According to the information shared by WHO, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness and dry cough. It may take up to 14 days for an infected person to show symptoms. While around 80% of people recover from the disease without needing special treatment, COVID-19 can get serious in some cases, causing difficulty in breathing and leading to pneumonia. Older people and people with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease are more vulnerable to becoming severely ill^.
How can you prevent the transmission of COVID-19?
To prevent the infection and transmission of COVID-19, follow the below advice by the WHO^:
- Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, or sanitise your hands with alcohol-based sanitisers.
- Follow social-distancing norms to keep at least a 1-metre distance between two people and avoid visiting crowded places.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid stepping out of the house if you feel unwell.
- Avoid smoking and other habits that can have an adverse effect on your lungs.
Does ICICI Pru iProtect Smart cover death due to COVID-19?
A common concern of many people in this situation is if their life insurance policy covers death due to COVID-19. Death caused due to health issues is covered by life insurance policies, including term plans. This stands true for death due to COVID-19 as well. ICICI Pru iProtect Smart covers death due to COVID-19*. If a person who has purchased this policy passes away due to COVID-19, his/her nominee will be paid the sum assured.
The importance of life insurance cannot be understated at a time like this. If you haven’t yet purchased a life insurance plan, do so immediately to ensure your family remains financially protected even in the case of any unfortunate eventualities.