#1 People with healthier lifestyles are faring better.
#2 There is a greater impact on those with underlying conditions. The five risk factors that contribute to “metabolic un-health” are lung conditions, kidney conditions, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
#3 Recurring or prolonged symptoms in certain people. (Residual symptoms persist after an acute infection.) These include shortness of breath, headaches, recurring fever and sweats.
#4 Social distancing works. It works in two main ways. Infectious disease spread is lower when people practice social distancing and it keeps the healthcare system functioning without being overwhelmed.
There is quite a lot of talk about viral load. Those of us in public health are wondering how much virus a person can be exposed to without getting sick.
High viral load is why COVID-19 is prevalent in healthcare workers both young and old and why healthcare workers are at such a tremendous risk.
Stay Safe and Virus Free
Looking ahead as many states loosen shelter in place orders… There is going to be a downstream effect on all of our choices.
The virus is here and it will be hanging around for a while. This is an RNA virus which is highly mutable which means that there will be mutations. One of the many challenges for developing a safe and effective vaccine.
We need to weigh the financial impact against the health risks. We cannot go into economic ruin just to save some lives.
People will die from this virus no matter what. The numbers will continue to rise and will be quite high. The healthcare system needed to get prepared for this virus and we all helped lessen the burden placed upon it by sheltering in place.
For now, we can go about our lives cautiously with the utmost respect for other people in our society. Although you may be safe, you may come into contact with someone who is more vulnerable. We need to go about our lives assuming that the other person might have the virus and surfaces may be contaminated. Wash your hands, and wear a mask to minimize virus transfer to protect yourself and others.
SARS-COv2 and Pets
Certain pets have the ability to develop SARS-COV-2. The virus connects through ACE-2 receptors in both humans and pets. Specifically (dogs, cats, ferrets, hamsters and pangolins).
Cats have a greater chance of getting infected than dogs. Animals can develop it from humans and weather it can be spread back to humans is inconclusive but suggestive. Respiratory droplets are the most significant source of infection. Pets are generally lower than humans and viral droplets can fall down to them from coughing and sneezing. Be vigilant about hygiene and stool. If someone tests positive for SARS-Cov2 they should isolate from their pet as well.
Resolve to take Action…
Taking charge of your own health is paramount right now. This is the time to hold tightly onto our health.
From a naturopathic perspective, the health impacts from infection depend on two things – the first is exposure and the second is susceptibility. Taking charge of your health leads to decreased susceptibility. Practicing good public health minimizes exposure.
This current crisis has reminded us of the importance of choosing a healthy lifestyle because people with healthier lifestyles are faring better.
Now is the time to shift to resolution.
Resolve to make a change…
Resolve to take better care of yourself…
Resolve to make 2020 the year when you kick chronic disease to the curb…
There are clear steps you can take.
All you need to do is take the first step.
There is no time to waste, the time has come to take good care of yourself.
Reach out today.
I wish you well,
Dr. Purcell
(Catch up on my bi-weekly COVID-19 posts HERE)
P.S. Now more than ever it is important to stay connected. Opt-in below to receive my bi-weekly emails. These emails will keep you up to date on the current pandemic. I will continue to share current health updates and tips. We are in this together!
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