COVID-19

On February 11, 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) announced an official name for the disease that first emerged in Wuhan China, 2019 Coronavirus Disease, or COVID-19. There are currently several types of human coronaviruses but COVID-19 is a new disease caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, that had not previously been seen in humans.

COVID-19 is believed to spread from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Transmission is more likely when people are near one another (within 6 ft). The virus may be spread by people who are asymptomatic (not showing any symptoms). Those who are most at risk for severe illness from COVID-19 are:

  • The elderly, especially those in assisted living or long-term care facilities
  • People of any age with underlying medical conditions such as
    • Chronic lung disease, moderate to severe asthma
    • Chronic kidney disease
    • Liver disease
    • Serious heart conditions
    • Immunocompromised due to cancer treatments, smoking, bone marrow/organ transplant, poorly control HIV or AIDS, and other immune weakening medications
    • Diabetes
    • Severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40)

The best way to avoid being infected with COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to it. We need to “flatten the curve” and prevent this disease from further spreading. The best way to ensure this is by:

  • Avoiding close contact with people. Always remember to keep a distance of at least 6 ft from you and others if you must be out
  • Staying home as much as humanly possible, especially if you are sick. If you are sick and require medical attention, call your PCP first and they will direct you to the best course of action
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, be sure to use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
  • Avoiding touching your face, especially with dirty hands or contaminated gloves.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Don’t forget to “DAB”!
  • Wearing a facemask if you are sick or tending to someone who is sick
  • Cleaning and Disinfecting surfaces and objects that are frequently touched
  • Launder your items, including stuffed animals and toys, using the warmest water setting possible according to the manufacturer instructions and dry them completely

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus

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845-B Quince Orchard Blvd,
Gaithersburg, MD 20878