Don’t Catch “The Rona”

In light of COVID-19, I thought I would share some information with you all in how to stay healthy during these uncertain times. First let’s clarify what COVID-19 is.

According to the World Health Organization, ”COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).”

What has been alarming about this particular virus is the fact that you could have it for two weeks and not even know. That places anyone that we interacted with in that time frame at risk, and who they’ve interacted with, and so on and so forth. See the problem?

Recently we have been urged to self quarantine in order to lower the possible exposures during day to day activities. Amusement parks, schools, restaurants and other densely populated areas have either closed temporarily or modified hours to help. This is super important in order to help minimize the risks of spreading this unpredictable virus.

So here’s a few things that you can do to help!

1. WASH YOUR HANDS

   I can’t emphasize this enough. I give all my patients hand washing information on discharge because it is the best way to prevent infection. Use soap and water, and scrub like you cut jalapeños and need to put your contacts in your eyes.

2. If you think you may be sick, STAY HOME.

   This is not the time to push through an illness to show how strong you are. If you have a cough or runny nose, stay home. Cover your mouth when you cough, followed by washing your hands.

3. Avoid touching your EYES, NOSE AND MOUTH.

   Your hands touch so many objects throughout the day (doorknobs, cellphones, keys) and can pick up germs. They can then be transferred when you touch these areas. However, keeping clean hands will help if touching your face is unavoidable.

4. Social Distancing/ Self Quarantine

   I’ve always been big on personal space, but now it more a necessity than a preference. WHO is suggesting 3 feet between individuals who are coughing and sneezing. If you consider that a cough can travel up to 6 meters (about 20 feet) and a sneeze can travel as much as 8 meters (26 ft), as well as stay suspended in the air for nearly 10 minutes, the further the better. I know everyone is concerned about amusement parks, gyms and theaters closing, but it is honestly the best way to “flatten the curve” and minimize exposure.

We all have to do our part to minimizing the exposure of this nasty virus.