Coronavirus 101

I might “just” be an ophthalmologist with some fun fashion content, but as a physician, I do feel I should at least address some of the major medical issues... (just wait until tomorrow! #doctorsspeakup@zdoggmd)

Today let’s talk Corinavirus. For the most updated accurate information, please visit @cdcgov. But here’s a quick summary as of 3/4/20:

- #COVID19 is a novel virus that can cause fever, cough, and shortness of breath 2-14 days after exposure
- “novel” means “new” - which is why we don’t have too much information about this disease, nor do we have immunity or vaccines available (yet)
- the majority of patients experience mild symptoms, while the ones who experience more severe ones typically have had comorbidities
- the virus is believed to spread person to person through close contact (defined as within 6 feet, mainly through droplets)
- the best prevention is to wash your hands properly with soap and water (alcohol based sanitizers are only recommend if you DON’T have access to soap and water), disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose
- masks DO NOT protect you from the virus. You can still get sick if you fail to wash your hands or touch your face (which may be more likely if you are fussing with a mask! Facemasks ARE recommended if YOU are sick so you aren’t coughing or sneezing droplets all over)
- all US cases reported thus far have been people who have traveled to affected areas and/or had close contact with people who have. There have been no confirmed community acquired cases - which means, you are very unlikely to just “catch coronavirus.”
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Some interesting additional information I found:
- the majority of cases have been reported in adults. Whether this means children are less affected is still unclear but as a mother, this is reassuring - because this virus may have originated from animals in China, there are suggestions that you could give the virus to your pets! No human or puppy kisses if you’re sick! 🐶
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My takeaway? WASH. YOUR. HANDS. There is a lot we do not know and cannot control - but washing your hands not one of them.