The coronavirus (COVID-19) has been reported in a growing number of countries with the number of reported cases growing expediently by the day. The virus was declared a global pandemic in March by the World Health Organization (WHO). During uncertain times such as this, it’s important to be vigilant and learn how to protect yourself from coronavirus. Our team here at Cool Springs Chiropractic is ready to help the people of Franklink, TN remain safe as this virus spreads.
What is the Coronavirus?
COVID-19 is a new strain in a family of viruses that we have seen before. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that range from the common cold to more serious diseases. The strain that began spreading in Wuhan is related to two other coronaviruses, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).
While these strains are similar, COVID-19 spreads more easily than SARS. It is similar to other coronaviruses that cause cold-like symptoms. It is highly transmissible and some cases can be mild, meaning the disease may be more widespread than current numbers suggest.
How Does COVID-19 Spread?
The new coronavirus appears to spread from person to person among those that are in close contact. While it’s unclear just how contagious the virus is, experts know that it is more transmissible than past coronaviruses. The disease can be spread by respiratory droplets when someone infected with the virus coughs or sneezes.
It is believed that the virus can set dormant in a carrier for up to two-weeks while still being transmissible. Other patients have reported being asymptomatic, meaning they can spread the disease without even knowing they have it.
How Can You Avoid Becoming Ill?
Even if you aren’t in the at-risk demographic, protecting yourself from contracting COVID-19 can help protect the ones around you who are. Governments, corporations, and organizations are already taking drastic measures to prevent the spread, but there’s more you can do. Here are ways you can avoid COVID-19:
Avoid Large Events and Gatherings
Depending on where you live, it’s likely you already have a shelter-in-place order hovering above your city or state. Both the WHO and CDC highly recommend against any gatherings of over 10-people or more. Large gatherings only act as a hotbed for the virus.
Social Distancing
Social distancing has become somewhat of an internet meme but it is one of the most effective measures in preventing the spread of the disease. You should avoid close contact and remain about six feet from anyone if possible. Experts believe the main way the virus is spread is through direct contact.
Self-Isolation
Before leaving the house to run errands ask yourself one question, “Is this an absolute necessity?” If the answer is no, it’s best to avoid running the errand at all. Both the CDC and WHO and major experts highly recommend anyone with a higher risk of serious illness self-isolate themselves for the time being.
Wash Your Hands Often
Now more than ever you should be washing your hands frequently throughout the day. Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid Touching Your Face
Touching your face is one of the things you don’t realize you do a thousand times a day until you’re told not to do it. The virus can spread quickly if you’re often touching your mouth or eyes with your hands throughout the day. Try your hardest to keep your hands as clean as possible and avoid touching your face as much as possible.
Clean and Disinfect Surfaces On a Daily Bases
It is believed that this virus can live for days at a time on certain surfaces. Clean and disinfect the surfaces you often touch at the bare minimum once a day. This could potentially kill off the virus if it’s lingering on the surface for too long.
Should You Wear Masks?
With the shortage of masks across the world, the CDC doesn’t recommend that healthy people wear a face mask. They do, however, recommend those who are feeling symptoms to wear a mask. This is to ensure there are enough masks for the sick and healthcare workers.
What Are the Symptoms?
The best way to protect yourself is to know the symptoms and act quickly if you feel as though you may have contracted the disease. Keep in mind, it can take anywhere from one day to two weeks to begin showing symptoms. Here are some of the symptoms:
- Cough
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Difficulty breathing
If you are experiencing these symptoms, visit a doctor and try to get tested as quickly as possible. Difficulty in breathing may require immediate medical attention. Try not to panic and remember that about 80% of people recover from the disease without needing special treatment.
What to do If You Feel Symptoms
The best way to protect your community if you feel symptoms is to take proper measures immediately. If you have symptoms, have been exposed to the virus or have tested positive for the virus, here are ways you can help prevent the spread:
- Stay home from work, school or public areas
- Avoid public transportation
- Stay isolated
- Use a separate bathroom from family if possible
- Avoid sharing dishes, glasses or bedding
Following these measures will help prevent the further spread of this disease, which would hopefully mean that we can be back to normal as quickly as possible.
We Are Taking Additional Measures
During this pandemic, our team at Cool Springs Chiropractic is taking every measure possible to ensure the safety of our staff, patients, and the community. We are considered an essential medical practice and remain open to help and serve you. We have reduced our hours, however, so please check our website or give us a call to ensure that we are open.
Are you suffering from back pain, sports injury, or an accident? Did you know Chiropractic can possibly help treat these injuries?
Get in touch with Dr. Pete Hinz at Cool Springs Chiropractic today for a FREE consultation.
