What to Know About COVID-19

by Mallory Durst, Certified Physician Assistant, The Hallmark

Life in the age of COVID-19 is different for everyone – and for some more than others. It’s created a need for greater vigilance and patience as well as extra thought into how we plan and go about each day. This “new normal” life we have now does come with some uncertainty, but becoming more informed about what we do know about COVID-19 can help us navigate these uncertainties with greater confidence.

COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, is spread person to person in close contact through respiratory droplets – most likely during coughing and sneezing. It is now understood that while it is possible to contract the virus from contaminated surfaces, it is not as likely as was once feared.

Symptoms are wide ranging, from mild to severe, and usually appear within two to 14 days of initial exposure. Symptoms can include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, loss of smell or taste, fatigue, body aches, headache, and even gastrointestinal issues. Anyone experiencing trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, lethargy, or a spiking fever should seek emergency medical attention. We also know that, even as infection rates are higher among young adults, severe forms of the disease in older adults create higher risk for more serious complications.

While some of what we know about COVID-19 has changed as scientists across the globe continue to learn more about its transmission and effects, the guidance that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued all along about how to prevent the spread of the disease has changed very little. Wearing masks is now better understood to be essential in fighting the spread of COVID-19, offering some protection for the uninfected and the reduction of droplet spread from infected persons. Disinfecting high-touch surfaces, physical distancing, and washing hands frequently or using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content have been upheld as some of the most effective ways of slowing the spread.

• Hand washing information provided by the World Health Organization

When faced with the increasing coronavirus case counts in the state of Texas and our local communities, it’s not hard to worry. But, as they say, “Worrying is like a rocking chair; it gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you very far.” To help control your worries about COVID-19, take a few simple steps. Limit your exposure to social media and the news. Stick to facts and numbers, not hearsay. Take precautions to put yourself in control.

Socializing at The Hallmark in the time of COVID-19 is different than it once was, but it can still be active, engaging and fun. With a few adjustments to the size of your gathering, the space where you come together, and the amount of time you devote to your event, you can still enjoy many of the activities you’ve always loved. Enjoying some time outdoors in green spaces on our grounds is encouraged to soak in some sunshine and vitamin D - just remember to wear sunscreen. If you chose excursions offsite, be sure to take along your mask and hand sanitizer.

Knowledge about COVID-19 gives you the power to live well and safely – with confidence! – even in these uncertain times. For more information about COVID-19, visit the CDC’s website.