So, here we are practically quarantined in our own homes. How did we get here and where do we go from here?
So according to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, as of 3-19-2020, "Ohio now has 119 confirmed cases of coronavirus in 24 counties, according to the Ohio Department of Health’s latest report released Thursday afternoon. Of those, 33 are hospitalized" from Fox 8, The numbers of cases and deaths are expected to climb. To be honest with you, my colleagues and I are surprised at such low numbers, when we consider patients with the flu, those numbers are much higher. How did we find ourselves in such a situation as this knowing that we have one of the best healthcare systems in the world? Well, if you look at how we are a very mobile and connected society it is a wonder that those numbers aren't higher and people aren't sicker. We go to the grocery stores for food and goods. We are in libraries, restaurants, bus terminals, transportation with commuters, hospitals, doctor offices and the list goes on. We are a connected society and that is great except in times like this.
There has been recent recommendations to have self distancing. Orders were given for the schools to be closed. Then the restaurants were closed. Public places and gatherings were closed. However, there are critical places that can not close such as Hospitals and Nursing Homes. These healthcare workers are working under stressful situations and front line to where the virus comes. Our healthcare system is being strained with not enough workers, or equipment, such as mask, ventilators and other valuable resources. Healthcare workers have the possibility of passing this to their families or anyone that they come in contact with. Proper training and equipment will help prevent that. .
The World Health Organization or WHO has plenty of recommendations on there website and it is best to refer to them for up to date information. The WHO website gives guidedance on what this virus is and how it is transmitted, "Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. Detailed investigations found that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans".
Things to keep us all safe
Taken right from the WHO website "Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing."
Now my own thoughts: use paper towels or barriers, your arms or foot when opening or spacing doors. Stay at safe distance ( 6 feet about the distance of a king size bed ) with anyone you are not sure if they are ill or not ( because the virus has a 2-14 day incubation period, that is practically everyone ) or use a barrier to protect your respiratory system such as a mask or if unavailable a scarf or turning in another direction. Respiratory infections are contracted by breathing in the virus or bacteria. Contact infections are contracted from touching a virus or bacteria on an object and transmitting it directly into an open area on our bodies such as the mouth, a cut or open area. So, wash your hand and body as soon and as often as possible. Build up your immunity, decrease sweets and fast foods. Take a daily vitamin, vitamin c, warm green tea, and a probiotic unless otherwise advised by your healthcare provider not to. Drink plenty of water ( at least 8 glasses a day ) and get regular sleep.
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