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Many of my patients are asking me about overseas travel.
Based on what I know today, my advice is not to go
overseas. It is less likely you will get the virus, but
there is a risk of being caught in a quarantine. And
then if you are sequestered in a quarantine your risk
for viral transmission likely increases.
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If you get symptoms of a viral infection, cold symptoms,
runny nose, cough, sore throat, achy, STAY HOME!
As of this writing, the likelihood that this is COVID-19
is extremely low! And if is COVID-19, the likelihood is
that it will be a mild, not a severe infection.
You may call me at any time to discuss, but we want to
minimize you coming to the office, urgent care or ER
where you might be infectious to others or pick up
something else like COVID-19 or be part of a quarantine
situation.
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Presently, travel in this country seems to be safe.
Nevertheless, if you are going to airports, subway,
train stations, etc. pay particular attention to
minimizing your touching of common areas.
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If you are using transportation such as Uber, taxis,
etc., be conscious of what you touch. If you are flying
or taking a train, use some antibacterial/antiviral
wipes and wipe down your area.
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It is now appropriate not to
shake hands, use an elbow bump. Go the other way
when you see people coughing. Try to wash your hands
with soap and water often. If it is not available,
use an alcohol-based hand gel.
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Be sure to wash your hands with
soap and water (20 seconds) before eating and avoid
touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
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If you are working in an office, start the day by
cleaning your phone and keyboard with an
antibacterial/antiviral wipe.
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We have no idea if supplements that are routinely taken
can be of help, but can they hurt? No. If you are
not taking vitamin D-3, take at least 2000 units a day;
it is known to have an antiviral effect and it has been
shown to decrease the incidence of influenza. It likely
has an immune-boosting effect and many people
unknowingly are vitamin D deficient.
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If you do not eat well (fresh fruits and vegetables at
least 5 servings) take a multivitamin daily.
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There is some question as to whether Turmeric or curcumin can
be helpful, it is known to have an antiviral and
antibacterial effect, so there is absolutely no
downside.
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Presently, there is no role for facemasks, there may be
down the road. Unfortunately, N-95 masks are not
presently available.
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It is not too late to take the flu shot if for some
reason you did not take it.
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Get your rest, fatigue makes you much more susceptible
to getting sick.
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Exercise but not too much or not too little,
over-exercise can make you more vulnerable to most viral
illnesses. Be careful at community pools.
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If you are going to the gym be smart, wipe down your
equipment before you start. And after you finish.
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If you have access to a sauna, use it 2-3 times per
week. It boosts immunity.
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A few things to be sure you always have on hand:
a case of water, plenty of Advil/Aleve, a
decongestant (like Afrin nasal spray), consider having a
small supply of non-perishable foods such as pasta,
rice, oatmeal, canned goods, and batteries.
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There are other foods that boost immunity; check these
videos out.
