Please read the following information regarding the current situation surrounding Coronavirus (COVID-19).
The most recent school closure in our area, due to a potential exposure to COVID-19, has likely increased your concern for your own child’s risk to this virus. It is important to remember some helpful information to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.
Coronavirus is transmitted the same as influenza and other viruses and can be eliminated with good cleaning and personal hygiene practices. Some tips from the CDC to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, such as coronavirus, include:
1) Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow, not your hands;
2) Wash your hands often with soap and water. (An alcohol-based hand sanitizer is acceptable if soap and water are not available.);
3) Disinfect ‘high traffic’ surfaces regularly (i.e. countertops, door handles, light switches, mobile devices, etc.);
4) Stay home from school, work, and out of the general public when you are sick. Children should not return to school/daycare until they have been fever-free (without use of medications) for 24 hours in order to protect the other children in the class;
5) Avoid close contact with others who are sick.
As always, our practice remains ready to see any patient in need of care. When calling our office, please keep in mind that at this time there is no in-office testing available for COVID-19. Testing is only available through the Pennsylvania Dept of Health and is not indicated unless a patient is suspected to have COVID-19.
Treatment for COVID-19 is supportive care, similar to that of other viral illnesses. Use of Tylenol and Motrin and cool-mist humidifiers are recommended. It is important to drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest when sick. The greatest risk that COVID-19 poses is to the elderly and those with a weakened immune system.
We know that there has been a lot of information communicated in recent weeks regarding COVID-19. Unfortunately, this constant media coverage regarding COVID-19 has led to a great deal of fear and panic. While it is important to stay informed, you should be sure to use trusted information sources such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for updates.
Lastly, cases of influenza are far more prevalent worldwide than those of the coronavirus. If you haven’t already gotten your flu shot this season, it is not too late!
