Our concierge doctors thought this would be a good time to tell you about viruses in general, especially the novel coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2, aka COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 is the name of the virus; COVID-19 is the disease it produces. This nomenclature is similar to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its resulting disease, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Perhaps the only people who might relate to the stress everyone is feeling these days are those few who were alive during the flu pandemic of 1918-1920 (yes, it lasted three years). Then, as today, the pandemic caused global industry shutdowns, overcrowded hospitals, mandatory closures, and people huddled in their homes in fear.
As our concierge doctors have mentioned in the past, data on the new coronavirus is continually evolving as we gain more experience with it. One of these areas is in the use of face masks or face coverings for the general public.
The longer we’re asked to practice social distancing, the more people—especially younger people—are chafing against the restrictions. Our concierge doctors at MD 2.0 would like to explore some of the many myths regarding social distancing and reiterate why this is the sole effective defense we currently have against this widening pandemic.
We at MD 2.0 just wanted to touch base and let you know we are staying on top and trying to make sense of all the confusing information coming your way.
Fake “cures” and bad advice are flying around the Internet at warp speed. Our concierge doctors understand the need to think that something can help. The virus is spreading rapidly, we don’t yet have widespread testing, and there is no vaccine available.
The National Sleep Foundation has designated this week National Sleep Awareness Week, to celebrate sleep health and encourage the public to prioritize sleep to improve their overall health and well-being.
The storm is coming, so you need to stock up on supplies: candles, batteries, plywood . . . oh, wait; that’s for a hurricane. But our concierge family practice doctors at MD 2.0 in Jupiter want you to think of the coronavirus in much the same way. As with hurricanes, the coronavirus can be deadly. But also like a hurricane, there’s no need for panic. Just some information, some perspective, and some common-sense measures to prepare for the coming outbreak here.
As the coronavirus continues to spread, along with the accompanying panic, face masks have been flying off the shelves. So maybe you think the best way to avoid catching it is to don a white mask.
High blood pressure (hypertension) can be deadly. In addition to spawning myriad health problems including heart attacks and strokes, other illnesses associated with hypertension can include kidney disease, blindness, and dementia. Unfortunately, it rarely produces detectable symptoms in sufferers until it has done serious damage.
