Corona Virus Pandemic
We don’t get too many pandemics in a century. Apparently the powers that be decided to label this infection as such to strongly warn of the implication of world-wide spread.
The corona virus is a respiratory infection. No intestinal symptoms. Cough and fever over 100 degree F are the main symptoms. Headache, muscle aches, fatigue and malaise (I feel lousy) can also occur. Symptoms are similar to influenza. We don’t know if this virus will be seasonal, like influenza, or go through a society by contagious human spread regardless of weather or other variables.
Viruses like corona spread through respiratory contact with an infected person, usually through coughing, sneezing, breathing on you and germ-filled hands.
Antibiotics do not kill viruses. That is why I don’t prescribe them for the common cold, bronchitis and sinusitis. If I suspect a bacterial infection, I do use antibiotics. But corona is a virus.
Viruses are constantly mutating, changing their RNA structure, just enough to cause our immune system to not recognize it, which is why we get colds year after year. Until our immune system becomes familiar with the corona virus and starts to make antibodies to them, this new virus is more potent.
Keeping our immune system strong is a major preventive for corona virus infection.
1. Get adequate rest and sleep
2. Routine aerobics, daily ideal, 3 to 4 times/week OK
3. Eat nutritiously, being moderate when consuming foods you love but are not healthy
4. Drink at least 4 glasses of water daily
5. Vitamin C several times a day
6. Garlic (it works for me) one clove/day. Don’t chew it. Cut it up in tiny pieces, put the pieces in a spoon, then with a glass of water swallow the spoonful like a pill (divide into two spoonfuls if needed). This stuff is strong – that’s why it kills germs (and lowers cholesterol). Eat something when you take garlic – otherwise too harsh on the stomach.
7. Stress management. Stresses lower our immune systems white cells ability to destroy viruses, bacteria, fungi and protozoans. The killer white blood cells seem less able to destroy illness causing microorganisms in animal experiments when stressing the rat. Same with us. Slow deep breathing with your eyes closed for five minutes before you go to sleep while lying in bed, and five minutes upon wakening (if your bladder will allow you) will facilitate a more relaxed, less stressful effect on you throughout the day and the night.
As much as I want you to be healthy…I want you to be happy.
And finally, the best prevention is avoiding contact with other people, especially large crowds or crowded transportation. Stay home more, work from home if possible. If you go to work, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often. Wipe surfaces frequently touched with Lysol or Clorox type disinfectant wipes.
Preventing the spread of this virus is our primary objective at this time. That is why public gatherings and venues are closing. I don’t know how long we will have shut-down. Some businesses are saying two weeks, but we have yet to see the full impact of this new virus. The epidemic will probably peak in 1 to 3 months. We have no cure…and no vaccine.
Self quarantine is strongly advised if you have:
1. cough
2. fever over 100 degree F
3. know or suspected exposure to anyone else possibly in contact with corona virus
The majority of people infected with corona virus survive. It is more devastating to the elderly and chronic heart, lung and kidney patients. Those in extended care and senior facilities are at greater risk. Also babies and pregnant women.
Our office continues to be open, business as usual. Modifications now implemented are:
1. No person is allowed into the office with a cough and fever. No exceptions.
2. All surfaces are wiped with Clorox wipes between each patient, and Lysol disinfectant is sprayed in any exam room or the waiting room where there is concern for infection.
3. Purell hand sanitizer is in every room and the waiting room.
The purpose of this blog is to inform you: to encourage you to stay away from big crowds, stay healthy, wash your hands a lot.
But at this time there is no need to panic. So far Reno is safer than larger communities. Things can change. Be assured I am right on top of things. Stay healthy, stay home, and stay positive.
Dr. Millman
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