It is nearly impossible to turn on your television or check social media and not be confronted with news about the coronavirus, COVID-19. But it’s for good reason.
A potential threat to our public health is something to be taken seriously. At DISC Sports & Spine Center, we are addressing this issue accordingly. Your safety and well-being are our priorities.
What Is COVID-19?
Facts are important. Even though it is likely that you’ve already heard this information, it doesn’t hurt to reiterate what we know about this virus.
COVID-19 comes from the family of coronaviruses. It originated in China and has now spread to more than 100 countries across the globe. Though most of us have been exposed to other coronaviruses in the past, COVID-19 is new—which means we don’t yet have a specific vaccine or treatment for this virus (these are in development), and we also don’t have immunity built up in our bodies to protect us from it.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most causes of COVID-19 are mild, but it can cause severe illness and death, especially in the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.For this reason, the CDC recommends that those over 60 years of age practice self-isolation in their home. Symptoms usually appear from 2-14 days after exposure and include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
COVID-19 appears to spread easily. It can be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets (think coughing or sneezing) when people are within six feet of one another. The virus can also live on surfaces and may be spread by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face.
DISC Coronavirus Updates
We’ve made some changes at DISC to protect our patients and community. We’ve always prided ourselves on our strict protocols to ensure a safe and clean environment, and now we’ve even further increased our frequency of cleaning hard or often-touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and countertops.
Our team at DISC is encouraging our patients and families to take extra precautions to stay healthy (and keep others healthy) during these challenging times. If you aren’t feeling well, specifically, if you have a fever, we encourage you to remain at home unless you are seeking medical care in an emergency. Avoid large gatherings and events or close contact with those you know are sick. Please keep a 6 foot distance from all others and practice self-isolation. If you have travelled recently, be sure to self-isolate yourself for a minimum of 30 days.
Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow. Be sure to clean surfaces that are used often, clean your phones and keyboards, and most importantly, wash your hands frequently! Taking these simple steps can have a tremendous impact on slowing the spread of illness and the COVID-19 virus.
What Else Is There to Know About the Spread of Coronavirus?
This is a rapidly evolving situation, and we are learning more about COVID-19 every day. The CDC website is a great source of updated information and provides guidance on how to prepare and protect yourself and your loved ones.
We are in the midst of something none of us have experienced in our lifetimes, and we understand that you are going to have questions and concerns about upcoming appointments or procedures at DISC. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our commitment to helping you live your best life remains unchanged.
