Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Update

Many aren’t asking if the Coronavirus is going to spread to Alaska, but are wondering when will it get here.   As we move towards education of this virus, and away from panic, I wanted to share a segment from CBS Sunday Morning that aired this last weekend (March 8th, 2020).

Coronavirus (3:20)

Although over 100,000 people have now been infected with the virus worldwide, most have mild symptoms. Those that are most at risk for severe illness are older persons and persons with pre-existing medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer or diabetes). Like cases of the flu, these individuals  appear to develop serious illness more often than others. 

What can I do to protect myself from COVID-19?

Here is how the World Health Organization has answered this question:

  • Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
    • Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
  • Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
    • Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
    • Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
  • Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
    • Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
  • Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.
    • Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.
  • Keep up to date on the latest COVID-19 hotspots (cities or local areas where COVID-19 is spreading widely). If possible, avoid traveling to places  – especially if you are an older person or have diabetes, heart or lung disease.
    • Why? You have a higher chance of catching COVID-19 in one of these areas.

One more thing, that I was reminded of in the CBS Sunday Morning video, is that if you think you have Coronavirus, do not show up unannounced at the Emergency Room.  Check first (call ahead) with your healthcare provider, who can alert the ER to be ready for you.  

I hope you stay healthy and this latest virus threat passes by without harm. Let’s keep thinking ahead and continue to be smart about our healthcare! Thanks for reading the FLC!!