This is an anxiety provoking time for us all. We have not, in our lifetimes, experienced an epidemic of this proportion and it can be terrifying. As news floods the airwaves of the seriousness of this infection please take heart that while many people may contract COVID-19 only a small proportion will become seriously ill. Children fortunately have an extremely low risk of contracting COVID-19 and those who do usually have mild symptoms. There have been no deaths of children from COVID-19 reported so far.
What factors predispose adults to becoming seriously ill?
- Underlying medical problems such as lung disease, cancer, diabetes or autoimmune disease
- Heavy smokers
- Advanced age
If you fall into one of these high-risk groups take extra precautions including working from home and avoiding large gatherings.
How to prepare for the spread of COVID-19
- If you have not had a flu shot- get one. While the flu vaccine will not protect you from COVID-!9 it will help to decrease your chance of getting the flu whose symptoms mimic a COVID-19 infection.
- Order a one-month supply of your prescription medications. Much of our medication is produced in China and there may be a back log of getting shipments to the US.
- Masks are not protective and could lead to dryness and irritation of the nasal passages with prolonged use. If you are sick and must go out use a mask to prevent the spread of infection.
The majority of people with healthy immune system should be spared the most severe symptoms of the Coronavirus. What can you do to boost your immune system during these stressful times?
- Get plenty of rest
- Limit sugar intake which has been shown to weaken the immune system
- Eat healthy meals and avoid excess alcohol intake
- Consider vitamin supplements if your diet has been lacking- Vit. C 1-2 grams per day, Selenium 150 mg per day, Zinc 30 mg per day. Purchase the best quality vitamins available. In NYC I use Vitahealth Pharmacy (212)628-1110 or Willner Chemist (212) 682-2817 or your local health food store.
- Exercise by walking, running or biking in the fresh spring air.
- Take measures to combat your stress. Take 15-30 minutes each day to listen to relaxing music, mediate or watch mindless TV (no news channels please).
To prevent the spread of infection please follow the CDC guidelines for frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer with an alcohol content between 65%-90% alcohol, cover your sneeze and cough with your elbow not your hands, and if you are sick with any respiratory illness- stay home. We love seeing you in the office but if you have a cough and fever call before coming. If you are experiencing fever, cough and shortness of breath or have underlying medical problems and are concerned please reach out to us, your primary care provider or your local emergency room immediately by phone and we will assist you in obtaining emergency care. Please rest assured that we practice a stringent cleaning schedule. Our office is cleaned with disinfectant several times per day and each exam room is thoroughly disinfected between patients. Your safety and health is our paramount concern.
As New Yorkers we have survived challenges before. From 9/11 to Hurricane Sandy we have banned together to help each other through difficult times. Please rest assured that this difficult period will pass, and I and my staff are here to support you in any way we can.
Stay Healthy! Stay Calm!
Dr. Jackie Jones
