The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) released new information today regarding COVID-19. COVID 19 is the illness that is caused by infection of the novel coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Signs and symptoms may include fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing. The current information suggests the COVID-19 illness can be mild in most people. Older people who had existing health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease, for example, were twice as likely to develop serious outcomes compared to healthier individuals, according to researchers.
New information:
The SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, just like the common cold and the flu, is thought to be spread through respiratory droplets from the coughing and sneezing of an infected person.
There is currently no FDA approved medication to treat COVID-19 and the time estimate for developing a vaccine may be about 1 year out.
Sonora Quest and LabCorp may be offering testing soon. The healthcare community is keeping up to date with the current available diagnostics.
If you have the signs or symptoms above or a lower respiratory tract infection, call your doctor’s office to let them know before you make an appointment so that they can prepare for your visit.
What can you do RIGHT NOW to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:
Don’t buy masks. The ADHS recommends against the public buying masks. This is because they are now in short supply and are not available where they are needed – in healthcare facilities.
Wash your hands. Use warm water, soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds. Or use a hand sanitizer that is at least 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Stay home when you are sick. This version of the coronavirus is very contagious.
Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow.
Wash your hands again! (Disclaimer: I encourage you to wash your hands even when there is not a viral pandemic).
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
What Naturopathic Doctors have to offer for general immune support:
Get a monthly preventative Engystol intramuscular injection. Engystol is a safe, botanical based injection that can help boost the immune system. (See the image below for more details).
Certain supplements such as Vitamin D, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Elderberry can help fortify your immune system to keep your body’s “terrain” uninhabitable by a virus. Consult your doctor about the proper dosages for you. Vitamin D and Vitamin A can be toxic at high levels.
Eat healthy. Vegetables. Fruit. Do it! Your immune system will thank you.
Sleep! Strive for 7-9 hours per night to keep up your body’s defenses.
Relax. Stress can down-regulate your immune system. Practice stress management every day such as yoga, meditation, reading, hobbies or walking in nature.
Hydrate. Drink at least half your body weight in ounces of purified water daily. Unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Avoid refined sugar. Sugar has been shown to decrease immune system function for 4-6 hours after ingestion! Put the candy down and grab some goji berries.
