COVID-19 has been at the center of attention for most of 2020 and looks as though it will be a fixture in our lives for the foreseeable future. The World Health Organization (WHO) labeled the virus as a global pandemic in March. It’s important to know how the virus operates and what you can do to avoid it to protect you and your loved ones. Our team here at Rise Chiropractic and Acupuncture put together a comprehensive guide about coronavirus: what you need to know and how to prevent It to help keep the people of Jacksonville, Florida safe and in the know.
What is this Virus?
COVID-19 originated in China in late 2019 and made it’s way to the United States and other parts of the world in early 2020. The virus is a new strain within a family of viruses that we have seen before. It is related to both severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MARS).
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that range from the common cold to more serious diseases. One of the major differences between COVID-19 and other coronaviruses is its high contagion rate and lethality in at-risk groups.
How Does the Virus Spread?
This new strain of coronavirus spreads person to person, most commonly among those who are in close contact with one another. It’s still uncertain just how contagious this disease is, but experts agree it’s more contagious than other diseases in its family such as MARS and SARS. It is believed that the virus can survive on certain surfaces for up to two weeks.
It is highly transmissible and in some cases, those with the disease may only feel mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. This is what makes COVID-19 so dangerous. It can take up to 14 days to show symptoms, or, show no symptoms at all, making it hard to tell who is carrying the disease.
How Can You Avoid Catching COVID-19?
Even if you’re not in the at-risk demographic, you owe a responsibility to your family and your community to take the steps necessary to avoid catching the disease. Your local government may already have measures in place for you but there are further steps you can take. Here’s how you can avoid COVID-19:
Stay at Home
The easiest way to avoid catching the disease is by avoiding any potential exposure. This means staying at home as much as possible so you don’t come in contact with someone or a surface that has the virus. We know it doesn’t take long to become stir-crazy, but ask yourself if what you’re getting is vital before leaving the house.
Social Distancing
Most experts agree that outside of total isolation, social distancing is one of the most effective ways to slow the spread of the virus. It’s recommended that you keep six-feet of space between you and those around you. This will help limit any potential exposure to the virus.
Wash Your Hands As Many Times As Possible
Washing your hands as often as possible is always recommended but now so more than ever. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you don’t have any soap or are unable to wash your hands, you can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Don’t Touch Your Face
Viruses spread quickly when they find a home on your hand and move to your face when you touch your face. We know that touching your face can be a rather hard habit to break. However, the less you touch your face the less exposed you are to the virus.
Disinfect the Surfaces of Your Home or Office
As mentioned earlier, COVID-19 is believed to be able to live on certain surfaces for as long as two weeks. Disinfecting surfaces that you are often in contact with such as a desk or a kitchen table, can help kill the virus. Some experts even recommend disinfecting bags of groceries after a trip to the grocery store.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Try to stay in the know on what’s happening in your community and the communities surrounding you. If you know that coronavirus clusters are popping up around where you live, limit your outside exposure as much as possible. Also, keep up to date with any of the new orders placed by local governments to make sure you’re not breaking a law when leaving your house.
What are the Symptoms
Perhaps the best way to prepare for COVID-19 is by knowing the warning signs. Knowing the symptoms of the virus can help you spot people to avoid, or let you know if you need to seek medical assistance. Here are some of the symptoms of the virus:
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Tiredness
- Aches
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact a doctor as soon as possible. Knowing these symptoms can help you protect yourself and your loved ones. Keep in mind, 80% of those who test positive for COVID-19 recover with no additional medical assistance required.
What Should You Do if You Feel Symptoms
First and foremost, you should contact a doctor to see if a proper test is necessary. If you are exhibiting symptoms, tested positive or have been in contact with someone who has the virus, you should take the following steps to limit the spread of the disease:
- Do not leave your home under any circumstances
- Avoid public transportation at all costs
- If living with family or roommates, use separate room and bathroom if possible
- Avoid sharing dishes, glasses or bedding
- REMAIN ISOLATED
While being sick is terrible, following these guidelines will help prevent the spread of the virus. If you are experiencing shortness of breath, seek medical assistance as quickly as possible. With the proper precautions, we can help limit the spread of this terrible virus.
Are you suffering from a sports injury, back pain, or an auto accident? Did you know that chiropractic treatment can help?
Get in touch with Dr. Dave Klosterman at Rise Chiropractic and Acupuncture today!
