DO I HAVE COVID-19?

  

Almost all of us are suggestable and with the relentless focus on washing your hands and social distancing, it is easy to see COVID-19 virus lurking all over the place.  And you could be right.  The danger comes when you start to wonder if being fatigued or coughing or sneezing a few times spells ‘doom’ for you.  

First and foremost, remember 81% of those who do become infected will have a mild case, with sometimes undetectable symptoms.  This is why COVID-19 is so sinister – people can be spreading it and feel alright.

Medical researchers have been collating data about the most prevalent symptoms.  Here is a list of the most common to the less common -- as a percentage -- experienced in those who have had the virus:

Ø 88% - Higher than normal fever

Ø 68% - Dry cough

Ø 38% - Fatigue

Ø 33% - Coughing up phlegm

Ø 19% - Shortness of breath

Ø 15% - Bone or joint pain

Ø 14% - Sore throat

Ø 14% - Headache

Ø 11% - Chills

Ø 5% -  Nausea or vomiting

Ø 5% -  Stuffy nose

Ø 4% -  Diarrhoea

Ø 1% -  Coughing up blood

Ø 1% -  Swollen eyes

If you feel ill -- and have a combination of the most common symptoms -- stay home and away from others.  CALL your doctor, health clinic or emergency room (Do not just show up!) for advice as to what the best action is for you.  

In many, if not all, developed countries, there will be a special, local number you can call to get advice.  Make a note of it now and put it in your phone or on a notepad, so you don't have to go look it up if you need it for yourself, a loved one or friend  

Only a doctor or professional health care provider can say for sure, and depending on your medical history, they may advise you to self-isolate or be admitted to a hospital for acute care.

CAREFUL WHAT YOU TOUCH

A new study has indicated how long the COVID-19 remains active circulating in the air and on surfaces.  Take time to read this and be wise with what you touch. 

Your best defence

• ·        If you are unwell or in a high-risk group, stay home. 
• ·        If you go out, be careful what you touch (see below).
• ·        Wash your hands correctly, every chance you get with soap and water for at least long enough to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice (to yourself, of course).
• ·        Avoid using an air-hand-dryer (and try to be out of a restroom if someone is using one to dry their hands).
• ·        Resist touching your face, rubbing your eyes or touching your lips!

This Virus Lives Too Long

This virus seems to have a long life and someone who is infected may spread the disease without feeling sick for, what is thought to be at least 14 days before symptoms appear. 

When someone who is infected with COVID-19, for example, coughs or sneezes openly or into the air or into their hand, droplets carrying the virus will begin to circulate in the air (up to two meters). 

NOTE:  Best way to thwart a surprise sneeze or cough is to always have a fresh tissue or paper towel with you and if you don’t sneeze or cough into your elbow.  Be sure to cover your mouth carefully.  With a tissue or paper towel, fold it so the potentially contaminated surface is inside and throw it in a waste bin.

If the person tries to use their hand to ‘catch’ the cough or sneeze, anything they touch afterwards (until they properly wash their hands), can infect others. 

Common Ways It Spreads

Here are common ways the virus can pose an invisible threat to others from circulating in the area or lurking on surfaces:

• ·        After an open, careless cough or sneeze
• ·        From someone touching surfaces with ‘dirty’ hands
• ·        From being in a space where someone is using an air-hand-dryer
• ·        When someone flushes the toilet, the virus circulates in those droplets that are splashed up

Longevity of COVID-19 in the Air / on Surfaces

Research, published in the ‘medRxiv’ depository has now conformed length of time the virus can live outside a person and infect others:

• Circulating in the air for up to three hours
• On surfaces such as plastic and stainless steel for up to three days.

The length of life differs with what the virus lands on, such as:

• ·        Coper surfaces - up to four hours
• ·        Cardboard  - up to 24 hours
• ·        Stainless steel and plastic  - between two to three days

Another study published in February estimated that if COVID-19 behaves in a similar way as other coronaviruses (such as SARS or MERS), it could live on metal, glass and plastic surfaces for up to nine days

NOTE:  To compare this to the common, seasonal flu, the flu virus can live on surfaces for only about 48 hours.

A Little Basic Science

One positive benefit from COVID-19 is that it reminds us of some basic science, such as the differences between a bacterium and a virus.

COVID-19 is a specific strain of virus.  The damage it does within someone's system can cause other/secondary infections, such as pneumonia.  Pneumonia is a bacterial infection.  So, what is the difference?

When we have a virus, we need to self-isolate, drink plenty of fluids, eat lightly and rest.  (It’s best to get an annual flu-shots early, especially if you are at high-risk). 

Typically, if you are not someone at risk (such as someone with weakened health – see below) your body’s defence system will most likely overwhelm the virus and you will be well again.  Antibiotics are no help at all against a virus. 

Virus

When you have a cold, for example, it is caused by a virus.  Many insist they need antibiotics when they feel sick, but they are not effective against viruses. 

Bacterium

On the other hand, if you have bronchitis or pneumonia, they are caused by a bacterial infection and maybe a result of first having a virus.  They do not typically respond to simple rest and fluids and may require antibiotics to fight off the disease.

Here is a great video to explain just some of the differences between the two and how differently they infect and grow within our bodies to make us sick.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_9DXEnEd-Q

Dr. Finch’s Lab:  Viruses vs. Bacteria | What's The Difference?

Most at Risk 

Statistics are still not reliable enough, but there are some common denominators with those who contract the virus and then develop a serious case and then die.  Those most at risk, include:

• ·       The aged (especially those older than 60 years)
• ·       Transplant patients
• ·       Chronically ill
• ·       Those with an auto-immune disease
• ·       HIV patients
• ·       High blood pressure
• ·       Lung diseases – COPD Asthma
• ·       Diabetes Mellitus
• ·       Those with other pre-existing conditions

It will take time to refine this list, but if someone is dealing with a serious or chronic condition, their system is already weak and so it makes sense. 

What has proven notable about COVID-19 is that children do not seem to be so vulnerable to the virus.  More data needs to be collected, verified and collated to substantiate this.

Those especially in the ‘firing line’

With that list in mind, it is obvious there are some individuals who are more vulnerable, not for the condition of their health, but because they are more likely to be exposed to those who have COVID-19. 

This is a key reason why protective medical gear must be available for these individuals, such as:

• ·       Health care workers
• ·       Public transportation workers
• ·       First Responders
• ·       Support and administrative staff in hospitals and clinics
• ·       Retail staff
• ·       Press

High-Risk Environments

If you feel unwell, stay home.  If you know you have been exposed to someone who is infected (or was in close contact with someone who has the virus) stay home (call the doctor, clinic or hospital emergency room and follow their directions. 

Being careful of where you go is most important, now.  Remember initial observations seem to indicate that someone can be infected, be spreading the virus to others and yet not show symptoms.  

Avoid, if at all possible, high-risk environments, such as:

• ·       Hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices
• ·       Universities
• ·       Correction Facilities/Prisons
• ·       Aged Care facilities
• ·       Sports Events
• ·       Conferences
• ·       Large group gatherings
• ·       Government services centres 

Conclusion 

Keep in mind, initial statistics indicate that eighty-one per cent of those who contract the virus will have a mild to very mild form.  

If you suspect you have been exposed to COVID-19, stay home, call your health-care provider and follow their directions.  They will know the best strategy to follow.

REALISTIC MATHS AND COVID-19

 Key Points

• Statistics about COVID-19 or effective treatment are not yet stable
• Without everyone taking personal care up to 31% of the world's population could be infected
• Of those who contract COVID-19, the prognosis is good
• There is an immediate and increasing need for planning and triaging the management of those diagnosed as positive for the virus
• Present 'over-the-top' care is not sustainable 
• Limited or lack of resources in some countries can contribute to the world's infection rates
• It is critical that developed countries plan how to better manage/stretch medical resources, to review diagnostic and isolation protocols now to ensure those who require focused critical care can find it.

Let's Get Real 

Returning to the overall stats about COVID-19 as we know them today (see previous segment) it is important to be realistic and not panic.  

The disease may have been active as early as mid-November with no monitoring or collecting of observed behaviours of patients. 

Even today the accuracy of data is not complete (but is growing more stable) but does offer hope if we act now, take sensible, self-precautions and do not panic into a 'walking dead' mode of behaviour.

At this stage, the estimates are that COVID-19 may infect up to 30% of the world's population.  Of those infected the breakdown continues to offer hope and optimism.

• 81% - Mild Cases - of those infected will contract a mild case.  Without the diagnostic test, the infection could seem just 'the flu'. 
• 10% to 14% - Critical cases - of those infected are at risk to ultimately be infected with a serious form of the virus. 
• 7% - Death rate - out of this population of critical cases result in death.

Critical Care and Isolation

Not all hospitals are large enough to have an intensive care unit.  If they do, it is small with only a few beds because each bed represents the ultimate of care.  The beds are usually full as new patients are moved in and out.  

Typically, for each patient is assigned dedicated doctors, nurses, specialist practitioners, all responsible for identifying diagnostic and treatment requirements.

Additionally, these critical patients need heart monitors, respirators/ventilators to manage breathing, multitudes of tubes and other monitoring and testing devices, etc.  There are requirements for radiologists, lab technicians, respiratory and physical therapists, dietitians and those who maintained feeding tubes, change linens, etc. and practical nursing care.

Early Days 

These are the early days with COVID-19, so the ratio of health care providers, infrastructure and equipment is easy to provide (although the run on masks is already causing concern for those on the front line of caring for these highly infectious patients).  

Researchers do not have the full picture of COVID-19, so each infected patient is put in isolation (a room of their own).  All necessary safety protocols and procedures for a highly-contagious disease have to be in place, monitored and documented for future discovery.  

Fresh protective gear, masks, gloves and goggles need to be used for every visit with the patient.  Every time a health care provider leaves a patient's room, they must dispose of the contaminated gear.  Everything going into and taken from their room needs extra care and handling to ensure the virus does not spread and so no additional dangers are introduced.

With the need to isolate each patients for at least 14 days, consider the number of beds available within each treatment facility -- they are limited as cost utilisation initiatives have been shrinking our health care capacity for decades.

Current Procedures Won't Continue - They Can't 

Today, when someone arrives at their doctor's, a clinic or hospital emergency room who is suspected of being infected with this new virus, they are being given 'over-the-top' care.  Each infected person is sort of a 'guinea pig' to be observed and case notes taken and shared to help when the next person presents.  

Of great concern, many countries are totally unprepared for any of this and the health care infrastructure, even basic hygiene is missing.  Even the countries who take pride in their preparedness will be surprised should the virus not be contained quickly. 

Consider the Costs

Right now, with so few patients it is possible to lavish care on each individual’s diagnosis, treatment, support and confinement from the moment they are identified as being infected.  The costs per patient at this stage would be astronomical (and well worth it). 

However, as more cases are identified, the ‘quantity’ of care will, of necessity have to lower as fewer health care providers will be available per infected individual.  Also, supportive care tools, instruments and devices will be dramatically stretched.   We are in the time to prepare.

12 IMPORTANT REMINDERS ABOUT MASKS

There is a lot of commercial price gouging that has started when it comes to hand sanitisers and masks.  Well, I suppose you can’t blame businesses for responding to market demands.  But be wise. 

3M™ 8210V N95 Particulate Respirator

Remember:  Masks are urgently 
needed for health-care providers.  
If you are sick, however, you wear
one to protect those around you.    

Masks are urgently needed for health-care providers.  Currently many people are purchasing and hoarding masks, just in case they might need them.  But we MUST ensure they are available for those working with the infected.  

Furthermore, wearing a mask and imagining it is protecting you from someone who may be infected with COVID-19 is a mistake.  There are many reasons for this.  Here are just twelve reminders:

1.   Most masks are not made of material woven tightly enough to filter out viruses as viruses are electron-microscope small. 

2.   When you are sick and need to venture out, the masks that afford the most protection for those around you must be at least an N95 or N100 mask. – but better to just stay home.

3.   If you wear a mask, it needs to cover the mouth and nose and be uninterruptedly tight around this area.  (For more protection wear wraparound glasses, because your eyes are vulnerable, too)

4.   Most masks are hot to wear.  They trap moisture inside and outside the longer they are worn.  This makes an ideal environment inside the mask for viruses and bacteria trapped inside to multiply as outside they catch and hold contamination. 

5.   Because masks are uncomfortable and hot, people tend to naturally move the mask around on their face (consciously or unconsciously).  They may even pull it away from their face, to let their face breathe or to simply get a breath of fresh air themselves.

6.   Masks may remind us to not touch our faces, eyes or mouth but typically we touch the outside or edges of a mask if we wear one.    

7.   The surfaces of the mask (inside and outside) collect more ‘stuff’ the longer they are worn.  The minute the mask is off it feels so good it is easy to touch your face, eyes or mouth.

8.   Masks typically aren’t made for multiple wearings and can’t be washed.  Therefore, just having one mask is not going to help.  You need to change the masks often depending on how long you’ve worn it and how contaminated the areas are you travelled through.

9.   Most remove or move the masks by the ‘face’ of the mask, again where the outside surface is contaminated.  Resist the temptation.

10.                     To remove a mask properly, remove it by the elastic around the ears.  Do not touch the inside or outside surface of the mask.

11.                     Remember, if you are unwell, it is primarily contaminated by your own breathing.  Disposed of the mask carefully by ensuring the more contaminated area is turned inside.  Throw the mask into a plastic bag (preferably one that is a (zip) sealable bag.  This protects others from the contamination.

12.                     Remember this virus lives longer than most bugs do outside the body.  When an infected person has coughed, sneezed or flushed the toilet, the virus is circulating in droplets in the air.  They lurk on surfaces to be picked up by another who touches their mouth, eyes or breathes the aerated virus. 

We are living in a time when our phones can keep us in contact with others, amuse and educate us.  We can order breakfast, lunch and dinner, access the news and pertinent information anytime.  Even with all the power in your phone, sometimes it is good to put it aside and rest.  It is a novel idea. 

6 Rules for Handwashing Success

If you have children, you would have taught them the importance of washing their hands well and thoroughly.  If not, you were taught how to wash your hands -- once upon a time.  

Here are the six basic rules to follow as washing your hands will prove to be one of your best weapon to protect yourself against COVID-19.

1.   Wash your hands often.

2.   Wash your hands with soap – don't just run them under the water arbitrarily. 

3.   Rub the soap on the backs and palms of the hands. 

4.   Wash each finger and between the fingers carefully - you may need to use a nail brush if you've gotten anything under them.

5.   Rinse the soap off completely.

6.   Use a paper towel (NO AIR DRYERS) or fresh hand towel or to use your OWN towel to dry them thoroughly.

12 Rules to Live by to Thwart COVID-19

1.   If you are sick, stay home.  Do not soldier on.  Self-quarantine for 14 days.  Work from home, if possible.  If you have workers, it is time to consider letting them work from home, too.

2.   Call the doctor, clinic or emergency room.  Don't just show up because critically vulnerable individuals may be there. Self-quarantine works well, but your doctor will know best.  (NOTE:  One key symptom is an unusually high fever.)

3.     Don't struggle to get to the supermarket or chemist for one more thing.  Use a delivery service or ask a friend to drop by what you need.  Tell them to leave it at the door and ring the bell, phone or send a text.  Don’t feel obligated to thank them in person – they will thank you for protecting them.  

4.     Wash your hands OFTEN, with soap, not disinfectant wipes.  And wash them the right way (see the segment on handwashing in this blog).

5.     If you can’t find any place to wash your hands properly, use disinfectant wipes with a liquid-based on 70% isopropyl alcohol - but do not rely on them over soap and water.  When you get to a place you can wash your hands with soap, be sure to wash your hands properly.

6.     Do not touch anything you don’t have to.  This includes handshaking and hugging for now.  Think before you touch anything!

7.     Carry a fresh handkerchief or supply of ‘Kleenex’ tissues with you at all times.  Use them to ‘touch’ things like ATM buttons, escalator handrails, doorknobs, etc., and then throw them away.

8.     If you must travel and take public transportation and someone is sputtering and coughing near you, move to another carriage or get off and catch the next one.  Try to avoid crowded carriages/buses - just avoid crowds as much as possible.

9.     Get at least seven hours of solid sleep.  It seems to be one of the great preventative keys.

10. Eat well.  If you don’t feel well enough to eat, perhaps try some protein shakes or fruit juices.  But you need your strength.

11. Do not underestimate the need to drink fluids.  If you’re as bad at this as I am, keep a couple of litre-(or quart-)bottles in the fridge and monitor it that way.  (Most people find cold water easier to drink and more refreshing than straight from the tap but just be sure to drink the equivalent of seven or eight (8oz) glasses per day).

12. Try to minimise coffee or other caffeinated drinks (I love them too, but they dehydrate you).  Fluids help flush out the bad stuff so water is best.