By Heidi Smith, Contributor
Currently there is no vaccine to prevent the respiratory disease COVID-19, so the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to it, wash your hands often and properly, and adhere to other guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious, while others do not spread so easily. Another consideration is whether the spread is “sustained,” or in other words, spreading continually without stopping.
“The CDC tells us that in some affected geographic areas, the virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably,” said Jeffrey Fraser, D.O., a board-certified family medicine specialist and medical director of Gulf Coast Medical Group. The multi-specialty medical group, which is affiliated with Venice Regional Bayfront Health, has locations in Venice, South Sarasota/Osprey, Englewood and North Port.
“I would advise everyone to stay home if you are sick and contact your primary care physician if you are concerned about symptoms,” Dr. Fraser said. “Follow the CDC’s guidelines for social distancing, hygiene and sanitizing surfaces. This coronavirus causes a potentially serious – and sometimes fatal – disease that appears to be especially devastating to older patients with underlying medical conditions. The bottom line is play it safe.”
Social Distancing: What is it and Why?
”Social distancing” has become a new term in our daily vernacular, but what does it mean and why is it important? The CDC defines social distancing as remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately six feet) from others when possible.
Since COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person-to person via respiratory droplets, the importance of keeping the six-foot distance is imperative. Respiratory droplets are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The CDC reports that these droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. They also can be dispersed into the area of the infected individual. Because of this, social distancing could not only prevent you from getting sick, but also save lives.
Handwashing also is critical in preventing spread of the virus because a person also can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, and then touching their mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. Also, germs from unwashed hands can be transferred to other objects, like handrails, tabletops or toys, and then transferred to another person’s hands.
If you are not able to wash your hands with soap and water, an alternative is to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. The sanitizer’s product label should specify the amount of alcohol it contains.
While using hand sanitizer can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands, it does not get rid of all types of germs. Hand sanitizers may not be as effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy, the CDC advises.
“Following the CDC’s guidance on social distancing, handwashing and other measures can help protect you, your loved ones and your community against respiratory disease like COVID-19,” said Dr. Fraser.
For more information and helpful links, please visit VeniceRegional.com/COVID-19, or call 844-366-9362.
Advice to Help Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
In addition to social distancing, the CDC recommends the following to help prevent the spread of germs and respiratory disease like COVID-19:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Venice Regional Bayfront Health
Call 844-366-9362 or visit
VeniceRegional.com/COVID-19