In an effort to share accurate information regarding the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, the doctors at Naturopathic Family Medicine have given a list of suggestions for combating this contagion.
The Washington State Department of Health has a call center to address specific questions from the public – about how the virus spreads or what to do if you have symptoms – call 1-800-525-0127, and press #. You can also check the website for up-to-date information (click here.)
Here are the facts about Coronavirus:
- The virus is spread between people who are in close contact – within 6 feet
- The virus is MOST contagious when people are sickest, but it can also be spread before someone shows symptoms
- Symptoms will appear 2 to 14-days after exposure
- Symptoms include fever, a dry cough, and shortness of breath/exhaustion
Coronavirus Treatments:
- There is no current treatment for this virus
- However, the things that help a body fight Coronavirus are the same as with any virus or flu – get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, eat healthy, and manage stress well
Recommendations To Prevent Illness, Including Coronavirus:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your face with your hands
- Cover any coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue, then wash your hands
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects often
A Note About Masks:
- Masks need to be worn by the SICK to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets through coughing and/or sneezing
- Healthy individuals are not protected by masks as respiratory droplets from others can pass through the mask easily
Additional recommendations if the outbreak worsens:
- Avoid public areas that are not necessary
- Avoid large events, such as sporting events, conferences, and other community gatherings, and close contact with others
- Avoid travel in close quarters like a plane or a bus
If you do have symptoms – fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath – PLEASE STAY HOME!! Do not expose others. Keep others from getting sick too.
If you have genuine symptoms of a viral illness, please do not make an appointment to visit a clinic or doctor’s office. Instead, call and arrange a video consult, telephone visit, or a car visit. Naturopathic Family Medicine can offer any of these consults with Dr. Krystal Richardson, or one of the other practitioners. Contact NFM at info@naturopathicfamilymedicine.com or 206-683-4495.
If you believe you have been exposed to the Coronavirus, please call the Washington State Department of Health hotline at 1-800-525-0127, and press #.