These are uncharted waters. As the numbers of confirmed cases grows, just assume it will be pandemic. Hygiene and keeping healthy are of the utmost importance.
Know a few facts:
- According to a JAMA article which summarized the 70,000+ cases reviewed, mortality increases for those over the age of 50, particularly with comorbidities like smoking, diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease. The mortality for those over the age of 70 is 8%, over the age of 80 is 14.8%.
- You may think- I’ll be ok, so why do I care? It is because your teacher, coworker, parent, or grandparent may not be. The longer you can delay exposure, the more knowledge and possible treatments we may have. We also don’t know how it will act here- will it be the same as China? Again, uncharted territory.
What our office is doing:
As of the writing of this blog on 3/3/2020, there are a few scattered confirmed cases in the Bay Area. My patients are healthy. We do not see the foot traffic of the hospital. No protocol is perfect, and anytime you are in a public place you have risk.
- DO NOT COME INTO THE OFFICE IF YOU HAVE HAD A FEVER. This is thought to be the presenting sign of coronavirus. If you are feeling sick, we ask that you reschedule your appointment.
- We are disinfecting the office with bleach cleaning products daily. (we apologize for the smell, but it is necessary)
- Barrier sheets are used on the exam tables.
- A wipe down will be done between patients.
- Gloves are being worn with all patients.
- We will not be shaking hands or hugging. (I am super sad about this one, but it is safer.)
- You will be given hand sanitizer upon entering the office.
For basic common sense tips, see my coronavirus blog HERE.
When will this end?
Again, this is uncharted territory. It may wane as the weather warms up, just like the seasonal flu. It may not wane. All estimates of a vaccine are a year out. Currently surgeries and our practice are continuing normally. We expect the situation will evolve. Remember for most healthy people, particularly below the age of 50, the risk is low. This is not a time to panic. It is a time to be vigilant and smart.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call.