#dr. nipunie rajapakse

[angelyasminesblog]

Today, as we live through this COVID-19 Pandemic, our country, Philippines, is treating this big crisis really seriously. So, as a fellow countrymen, we tend to obey and cooperate on what rules and protocols our Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) established when in terms to our safety. But;

"Do everyone of us follow or remember those protocols?"

The DOH astablished this program called "BIDA Plus+ Solusyon sa COVID-19" with Alden Richards as their Ambassador. BIDA Plus+ stands for:

B – Bawal ang walang mask at face shield.

I – Isanitize ang mga kamay at iwasan ang kulob na lugar.

D – Dumistansya ng isang metro at limitahan ang pisikal na interaksyon sa iba.

A – Alamin ang totoong impormasyon.

Plus+ – Suportahan ang FDA approved na bakuna.

If we follow these protocols, we can be certain that our health is very secure. Base on the interview of Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases expert,"The things we're asking people to do are not easy. They are definitely disruptive, they're definitely challenging, but they do have evidence to show that they work when implemented broadly, widely and followed by everyone."  

Sources:

https://doh.gov.ph/COVID-19/IATF-Resolutions

[orbemnews]

Afraid of Needles? Don’t Let It Keep You From a Covid-19 Vaccine. Most people aren’t particularly fond of needles. But to a significant number of people, the fear of needles goes beyond merely inducing anxiety into a more dangerous area, in which the fear prevents them from seeking out needed medical care. And as the world’s hopes of returning to a post-pandemic normal rest largely on people’s willingness to take a Covid-19 vaccine, experts and health care professionals are assuring those people that there are ways to overcome this fear. “It would be heartbreaking to me if a fear of needles held someone back from getting this vaccine, because there are things we can do to alleviate that,” said Dr. Nipunie S. Rajapakse, an infectious diseases expert at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. A study from the University of Michigan found that 16 percent of adults from several countries avoided annual flu vaccinations because of a fear of needles, and 20 percent avoided tetanus shots. Mary Rogers, a retired University of Michigan professor and one of the authors of the study, said it was too soon to know if a similar number of people will abstain from the Covid-19 vaccine. But that fear tends to lessen as people age — which is concerning since surges of coronavirus cases have been driven by young people, who are more likely to have the phobia. Experts say it is a problem that can be overcome, whether the fear is keeping you from getting the vaccine or just causing you distress. Here are the steps they suggest taking. Seek professional help to conquer the phobia. A therapist can help people with the most severe fears, using some of the techniques that help people conquer other fears that can affect their lives. “When we really are worried about a fear is when it gets to the point that it is interfering with the person getting appropriate medical care, or is causing the person such distress that yes, they go ahead and get a flu shot or the vaccine, but they’re sick for a month thinking about getting it,” said Dianne Chambless, a retired professor of psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. With other phobias, professionals will often recommend slowly exposing yourself to the fear, like someone afraid of heights spending gradually more time on a balcony. But that’s harder to do with needles, since shots are infrequent and easily avoided. Dr. Chambless suggested working on your comfort levels by first looking at photos of needles and syringes, then photos of someone getting a shot, and working up to videos. But a therapist can offer a fuller plan. Updated  March 15, 2021, 7:45 a.m. ET If you can’t see a therapist, self-help books on overcoming phobias could be a quicker option, she said. Tell the nurse about your fears before getting the shot. There may be techniques they can use, or products available, to reduce the pain or be more patient, Dr. Rajapakse said. If it would help to have someone with you for support, some vaccination centers may allow it, but you would have to ask ahead of time. What You Need to Know About the Vaccine Rollout Some people’s fears may be so severe that they’re at risk of fainting. If that’s the case, the nurse may be able to administer the shot with you lying down, or otherwise help reduce the risk, Dr. Rajapakse said. If fainting is a risk and you begin to feel woozy, Dr. Chambless suggested tensing your body’s muscles to drive blood pressure to the head. Distract yourself. The whole thing will be over in seconds, and a distraction can help you get through it. It could be a YouTube video on your phone, or your favorite song playing. You could practice deep-breathing or meditative techniques, or wiggle your toes, or look around and count all of the blue items you can see in the room. Many people choose not to look directly at the needle. You don’t need to see it. “Draw your attention away from what is going on,” Dr. Rajapakse said. Focus on the benefits. For some people, the nervous anticipation of the shot is nearly as bad as the pinch itself. But in the case of the Covid-19 vaccine, there’s a lot to look forward to if the vaccine succeeds in allowing a return to normalcy. Dr. Rajapakse said that when she got her first dose, “my personal feeling was one of optimism and excitement rather than feeling nervous about it.” “Keeping that at the front of your mind can make this a little less of a nervous experience for you,” she said. The media can do its part by showing fewer images of people looking uncomfortable while a needle goes into their skin, which can aggravate feelings of anxiety, Dr. Rajapakse said. A good countermeasure is all of the positive photos emerging on social media of people holding their vaccination cards, she said. (Just be careful about how much information you’re sharing.) The more selfies, stickers and grateful posts people see, the more likely they are to associate the vaccine with positive feelings, she said. Source link Orbem News #afraid #Covid19 #Dont #needles #Vaccine

[jeremystrele]

Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus

Getty Images

As the number of coronavirus cases increase around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to profoundly reshape daily lives and habits. If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve likely seen people in the U.S. and around the world “panic buying” in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but it’s critical to remember that being prepared doesn’t equate to stockpiling or hoarding. 

During the coronavirus pandemic, it’s important to not panic or stockpile supplies. There are healthcare workers and sick people around the world who have a much higher need for supplies like face masks. A shortage could pose an even greater health risk to communities. Instead, it’s best to create a household plan, as recommended by the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention. With a household plan, you can prepare and anticipate what sort of items you’ll need in case anyone gets sick at home or there’s a disruption of daily activities in your community.

There’s a ton of information on how to prepare for a coronavirus outbreak in your community, and it can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled a list of what to do and buy while you’re quarantined at home. 

Make a plan, scan your home

A COVID-19 outbreak could last for a long time in your community, so a household plan can help protect your health and the health of those you care about, according to the CDC. 

The CDC provides step-by-step guidance on how to establish a successful household plan, and recommends basing the details of your plan on the needs and daily routines of who you live with. Take a look around your home and scan your pantry, medicine cabinet and bathrooms to figure out what you already have, then write down what you’re missing. 

Buy what you need for two weeks

If you’re in home quarantine, you should have at least two weeks’ worth of supplies and minimize trips to stores to avoid contact with others.

Both the CDC and U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommend buying enough household items, medications and food to last two weeks. It’s also a good idea to look into how to get food delivered.

“It’s important to note that food production suppliers and companies are not reporting any shortage of food supplies across the country — so while you shop, it’s not necessary to hoard food or other grocery store items,” Tamika Sims, PhD, director of food technology communications at the International Food Information Council Foundation, said in a blog post. 

So, you’re probably wondering: What exactly should I buy during a COVID-19 pandemic?

Prioritize your grocery list

Prioritize non-perishables, frozen foods and canned vegetables on your grocery list the next time you make a trip to the supermarket. If you’d like to buy fresh produce, try to use that up first to minimize any food waste. You also have the option to freeze most fresh produce if you buy too much. 

“Instead of going to the store several times a week, try to get enough groceries for one full week, buy more healthy shelf-stable items to avoid spoilage, and refrigerate foods properly,” Sims said.

Additionally, keep an eye out for foods with long shelf lives such as dried beans, rolled oats, pasta products, shelf stable milk and rice. These types of foods can usually sit in the pantry for several years. 

While you can have a supply of bottled water in the house, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency made it clear that “Americans can continue to use and drink water from their tap as usual.” 

If you have pets or children in the home, pick up some extra food and supplies all at once to avoid making extra trips throughout the week.

Check toiletries and cleaning supplies

Across the internet, images of empty shelves and shopping carts full of supplies have led more and more people to panic buy. Toilet paper is one of several items that has become the latest coronavirus panic buy, but the reason why isn’t very clear. It’s natural to want to prepare for the worst, but don’t overstock basic toiletries.

Within the two-week limit, make sure you have enough toothpaste, floss, face wash, moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, razors, shaving cream and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. It’s also good to have extra laundry detergent and hand soap at home. 

Refill prescriptions and over-the-counter medications

Make sure you’re up to date on any prescription medications and have a supply of necessary over-the-counter medications. In light of COVID-19’s spread, CVS and Walgreens are offering free home delivery of prescription drugs. And some insurers, such as Aetna, Humana, and Blue Cross Blue Shield have temporarily waived early refill limits on 30-day prescriptions. 

The CDC advises patients to check with their pharmacists about the possibility of 30-day emergency refills and to keep a 7- to 10-day supply at home, while the American Red Cross recommends having at least a 30-day supply of any prescription medications at home. 

Things you don’t need to buy 

It’s easy to act out of fear during a frightening global situation like the COVID-19 pandemic, but panic buying and stockpiling doesn’t help the situation. Keep in mind that you can skip the hand sanitizer if you’re self-isolating (as long as you have hand soap), and that you don’t need to wear face masks if you’re healthy. 

“The current recommendations regarding masks are that if you yourself are sick with fever and cough, you can wear a surgical mask to prevent transmission to other people,” Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist, said in a blog post. “If you are healthy, there is not thought to be any additional benefit to wearing a mask yourself because the mask is not airtight and does not necessarily prevent breathing in of these viral particles, which are very tiny.”

As one last reminder, here’s a list of things you don’t need to buy right now:

Face masks (unless you’re sick)

More than a two-week supply of hand sanitizers or hand soap

More than a two-week supply of food 

Dehydrated meals

The post Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus appeared first on Freshome.com.

[cessanderson]

Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus https://ift.tt/2wrn5Gk

Getty Images

As the number of coronavirus cases increase around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to profoundly reshape daily lives and habits. If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve likely seen people in the U.S. and around the world “panic buying” in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but it’s critical to remember that being prepared doesn’t equate to stockpiling or hoarding. 

During the coronavirus pandemic, it’s important to not panic or stockpile supplies. There are healthcare workers and sick people around the world who have a much higher need for supplies like face masks. A shortage could pose an even greater health risk to communities. Instead, it’s best to create a household plan, as recommended by the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention. With a household plan, you can prepare and anticipate what sort of items you’ll need in case anyone gets sick at home or there’s a disruption of daily activities in your community.

There’s a ton of information on how to prepare for a coronavirus outbreak in your community, and it can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled a list of what to do and buy while you’re quarantined at home. 

Make a plan, scan your home

A COVID-19 outbreak could last for a long time in your community, so a household plan can help protect your health and the health of those you care about, according to the CDC. 

The CDC provides step-by-step guidance on how to establish a successful household plan, and recommends basing the details of your plan on the needs and daily routines of who you live with. Take a look around your home and scan your pantry, medicine cabinet and bathrooms to figure out what you already have, then write down what you’re missing. 

Buy what you need for two weeks

If you’re in home quarantine, you should have at least two weeks’ worth of supplies and minimize trips to stores to avoid contact with others.

Both the CDC and U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommend buying enough household items, medications and food to last two weeks. It’s also a good idea to look into how to get food delivered.

“It’s important to note that food production suppliers and companies are not reporting any shortage of food supplies across the country — so while you shop, it’s not necessary to hoard food or other grocery store items,” Tamika Sims, PhD, director of food technology communications at the International Food Information Council Foundation, said in a blog post. 

So, you’re probably wondering: What exactly should I buy during a COVID-19 pandemic?

Prioritize your grocery list

Prioritize non-perishables, frozen foods and canned vegetables on your grocery list the next time you make a trip to the supermarket. If you’d like to buy fresh produce, try to use that up first to minimize any food waste. You also have the option to freeze most fresh produce if you buy too much. 

“Instead of going to the store several times a week, try to get enough groceries for one full week, buy more healthy shelf-stable items to avoid spoilage, and refrigerate foods properly,” Sims said.

Additionally, keep an eye out for foods with long shelf lives such as dried beans, rolled oats, pasta products, shelf stable milk and rice. These types of foods can usually sit in the pantry for several years. 

While you can have a supply of bottled water in the house, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency made it clear that “Americans can continue to use and drink water from their tap as usual.” 

If you have pets or children in the home, pick up some extra food and supplies all at once to avoid making extra trips throughout the week.

Check toiletries and cleaning supplies

Across the internet, images of empty shelves and shopping carts full of supplies have led more and more people to panic buy. Toilet paper is one of several items that has become the latest coronavirus panic buy, but the reason why isn’t very clear. It’s natural to want to prepare for the worst, but don’t overstock basic toiletries.

Within the two-week limit, make sure you have enough toothpaste, floss, face wash, moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, razors, shaving cream and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. It’s also good to have extra laundry detergent and hand soap at home. 

Refill prescriptions and over-the-counter medications

Make sure you’re up to date on any prescription medications and have a supply of necessary over-the-counter medications. In light of COVID-19’s spread, CVS and Walgreens are offering free home delivery of prescription drugs. And some insurers, such as Aetna, Humana, and Blue Cross Blue Shield have temporarily waived early refill limits on 30-day prescriptions. 

The CDC advises patients to check with their pharmacists about the possibility of 30-day emergency refills and to keep a 7- to 10-day supply at home, while the American Red Cross recommends having at least a 30-day supply of any prescription medications at home. 

Things you don’t need to buy 

It’s easy to act out of fear during a frightening global situation like the COVID-19 pandemic, but panic buying and stockpiling doesn’t help the situation. Keep in mind that you can skip the hand sanitizer if you’re self-isolating (as long as you have hand soap), and that you don’t need to wear face masks if you’re healthy. 

“The current recommendations regarding masks are that if you yourself are sick with fever and cough, you can wear a surgical mask to prevent transmission to other people,” Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist, said in a blog post. “If you are healthy, there is not thought to be any additional benefit to wearing a mask yourself because the mask is not airtight and does not necessarily prevent breathing in of these viral particles, which are very tiny.”

As one last reminder, here’s a list of things you don’t need to buy right now:

Face masks (unless you’re sick)

More than a two-week supply of hand sanitizers or hand soap

More than a two-week supply of food 

Dehydrated meals

The post Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus appeared first on Freshome.com.

Alex Gailey

[owensrhodes]

Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus

Getty Images

As the number of coronavirus cases increase around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to profoundly reshape daily lives and habits. If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve likely seen people in the U.S. and around the world “panic buying” in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but it’s critical to remember that being prepared doesn’t equate to stockpiling or hoarding. 

During the coronavirus pandemic, it’s important to not panic or stockpile supplies. There are healthcare workers and sick people around the world who have a much higher need for supplies like face masks. A shortage could pose an even greater health risk to communities. Instead, it’s best to create a household plan, as recommended by the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention. With a household plan, you can prepare and anticipate what sort of items you’ll need in case anyone gets sick at home or there’s a disruption of daily activities in your community.

There’s a ton of information on how to prepare for a coronavirus outbreak in your community, and it can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled a list of what to do and buy while you’re quarantined at home. 

Make a plan, scan your home

A COVID-19 outbreak could last for a long time in your community, so a household plan can help protect your health and the health of those you care about, according to the CDC. 

The CDC provides step-by-step guidance on how to establish a successful household plan, and recommends basing the details of your plan on the needs and daily routines of who you live with. Take a look around your home and scan your pantry, medicine cabinet and bathrooms to figure out what you already have, then write down what you’re missing. 

Buy what you need for two weeks

If you’re in home quarantine, you should have at least two weeks’ worth of supplies and minimize trips to stores to avoid contact with others.

Both the CDC and U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommend buying enough household items, medications and food to last two weeks. It’s also a good idea to look into how to get food delivered.

“It’s important to note that food production suppliers and companies are not reporting any shortage of food supplies across the country — so while you shop, it’s not necessary to hoard food or other grocery store items,” Tamika Sims, PhD, director of food technology communications at the International Food Information Council Foundation, said in a blog post. 

So, you’re probably wondering: What exactly should I buy during a COVID-19 pandemic?

Prioritize your grocery list

Prioritize non-perishables, frozen foods and canned vegetables on your grocery list the next time you make a trip to the supermarket. If you’d like to buy fresh produce, try to use that up first to minimize any food waste. You also have the option to freeze most fresh produce if you buy too much. 

“Instead of going to the store several times a week, try to get enough groceries for one full week, buy more healthy shelf-stable items to avoid spoilage, and refrigerate foods properly,” Sims said.

Additionally, keep an eye out for foods with long shelf lives such as dried beans, rolled oats, pasta products, shelf stable milk and rice. These types of foods can usually sit in the pantry for several years. 

While you can have a supply of bottled water in the house, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency made it clear that “Americans can continue to use and drink water from their tap as usual.” 

If you have pets or children in the home, pick up some extra food and supplies all at once to avoid making extra trips throughout the week.

Check toiletries and cleaning supplies

Across the internet, images of empty shelves and shopping carts full of supplies have led more and more people to panic buy. Toilet paper is one of several items that has become the latest coronavirus panic buy, but the reason why isn’t very clear. It’s natural to want to prepare for the worst, but don’t overstock basic toiletries.

Within the two-week limit, make sure you have enough toothpaste, floss, face wash, moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, razors, shaving cream and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. It’s also good to have extra laundry detergent and hand soap at home. 

Refill prescriptions and over-the-counter medications

Make sure you’re up to date on any prescription medications and have a supply of necessary over-the-counter medications. In light of COVID-19’s spread, CVS and Walgreens are offering free home delivery of prescription drugs. And some insurers, such as Aetna, Humana, and Blue Cross Blue Shield have temporarily waived early refill limits on 30-day prescriptions. 

The CDC advises patients to check with their pharmacists about the possibility of 30-day emergency refills and to keep a 7- to 10-day supply at home, while the American Red Cross recommends having at least a 30-day supply of any prescription medications at home. 

Things you don’t need to buy 

It’s easy to act out of fear during a frightening global situation like the COVID-19 pandemic, but panic buying and stockpiling doesn’t help the situation. Keep in mind that you can skip the hand sanitizer if you’re self-isolating (as long as you have hand soap), and that you don’t need to wear face masks if you’re healthy. 

“The current recommendations regarding masks are that if you yourself are sick with fever and cough, you can wear a surgical mask to prevent transmission to other people,” Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist, said in a blog post. “If you are healthy, there is not thought to be any additional benefit to wearing a mask yourself because the mask is not airtight and does not necessarily prevent breathing in of these viral particles, which are very tiny.”

As one last reminder, here’s a list of things you don’t need to buy right now:

Face masks (unless you’re sick)

More than a two-week supply of hand sanitizers or hand soap

More than a two-week supply of food 

Dehydrated meals

The post Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus appeared first on Freshome.com.

[jovialsoulinfluencer]

Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus

Getty Images

As the number of coronavirus cases increase around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to profoundly reshape daily lives and habits. If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve likely seen people in the U.S. and around the world “panic buying” in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, but it’s critical to remember that being prepared doesn’t equate to stockpiling or hoarding. 

During the coronavirus pandemic, it’s important to not panic or stockpile supplies. There are healthcare workers and sick people around the world who have a much higher need for supplies like face masks. A shortage could pose an even greater health risk to communities. Instead, it’s best to create a household plan, as recommended by the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention. With a household plan, you can prepare and anticipate what sort of items you’ll need in case anyone gets sick at home or there’s a disruption of daily activities in your community.

There’s a ton of information on how to prepare for a coronavirus outbreak in your community, and it can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled a list of what to do and buy while you’re quarantined at home. 

Make a plan, scan your home

A COVID-19 outbreak could last for a long time in your community, so a household plan can help protect your health and the health of those you care about, according to the CDC. 

The CDC provides step-by-step guidance on how to establish a successful household plan, and recommends basing the details of your plan on the needs and daily routines of who you live with. Take a look around your home and scan your pantry, medicine cabinet and bathrooms to figure out what you already have, then write down what you’re missing. 

Buy what you need for two weeks

If you’re in home quarantine, you should have at least two weeks’ worth of supplies and minimize trips to stores to avoid contact with others.

Both the CDC and U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommend buying enough household items, medications and food to last two weeks. It’s also a good idea to look into how to get food delivered.

“It’s important to note that food production suppliers and companies are not reporting any shortage of food supplies across the country — so while you shop, it’s not necessary to hoard food or other grocery store items,” Tamika Sims, PhD, director of food technology communications at the International Food Information Council Foundation, said in a blog post. 

So, you’re probably wondering: What exactly should I buy during a COVID-19 pandemic?

Prioritize your grocery list

Prioritize non-perishables, frozen foods and canned vegetables on your grocery list the next time you make a trip to the supermarket. If you’d like to buy fresh produce, try to use that up first to minimize any food waste. You also have the option to freeze most fresh produce if you buy too much. 

“Instead of going to the store several times a week, try to get enough groceries for one full week, buy more healthy shelf-stable items to avoid spoilage, and refrigerate foods properly,” Sims said.

Additionally, keep an eye out for foods with long shelf lives such as dried beans, rolled oats, pasta products, shelf stable milk and rice. These types of foods can usually sit in the pantry for several years. 

While you can have a supply of bottled water in the house, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency made it clear that “Americans can continue to use and drink water from their tap as usual.” 

If you have pets or children in the home, pick up some extra food and supplies all at once to avoid making extra trips throughout the week.

Check toiletries and cleaning supplies

Across the internet, images of empty shelves and shopping carts full of supplies have led more and more people to panic buy. Toilet paper is one of several items that has become the latest coronavirus panic buy, but the reason why isn’t very clear. It’s natural to want to prepare for the worst, but don’t overstock basic toiletries.

Within the two-week limit, make sure you have enough toothpaste, floss, face wash, moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, razors, shaving cream and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. It’s also good to have extra laundry detergent and hand soap at home. 

Refill prescriptions and over-the-counter medications

Make sure you’re up to date on any prescription medications and have a supply of necessary over-the-counter medications. In light of COVID-19’s spread, CVS and Walgreens are offering free home delivery of prescription drugs. And some insurers, such as Aetna, Humana, and Blue Cross Blue Shield have temporarily waived early refill limits on 30-day prescriptions. 

The CDC advises patients to check with their pharmacists about the possibility of 30-day emergency refills and to keep a 7- to 10-day supply at home, while the American Red Cross recommends having at least a 30-day supply of any prescription medications at home. 

Things you don’t need to buy 

It’s easy to act out of fear during a frightening global situation like the COVID-19 pandemic, but panic buying and stockpiling doesn’t help the situation. Keep in mind that you can skip the hand sanitizer if you’re self-isolating (as long as you have hand soap), and that you don’t need to wear face masks if you’re healthy. 

“The current recommendations regarding masks are that if you yourself are sick with fever and cough, you can wear a surgical mask to prevent transmission to other people,” Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist, said in a blog post. “If you are healthy, there is not thought to be any additional benefit to wearing a mask yourself because the mask is not airtight and does not necessarily prevent breathing in of these viral particles, which are very tiny.”

As one last reminder, here’s a list of things you don’t need to buy right now:

Face masks (unless you’re sick)

More than a two-week supply of hand sanitizers or hand soap

More than a two-week supply of food 

Dehydrated meals

The post Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus appeared first on Freshome.com.

from https://freshome.com/kitchen/what-to-buy-for-coronavirus-home-quarantine/ via Don’t Stockpile: What to Buy for Home Quarantine During Coronavirus

[cathrynstreich]

Complete Your COVID-19 Back-to-School Checklist

(TNS)—Families and school districts are weighing difficult decisions on whether to return to school in person, online or a combination of both during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“No matter what education model is chosen—in-person, distance learning or a hybrid of the two—we want to provide guidance to parents, children, teachers and staff on how to stay as safe and healthy as possible this school year,” says Nipunie Rajapakse, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Mayo Clinic. “These tips will be familiar, and they continue to be the most effective ways we have to minimize the risk of COVID-19 exposure and spread. Certain strategies may be more effective for certain age groups of children. A combination of strategies is important because no single measure provides 100-percent protection from exposure,” says Dr. Rajapakse.

Practice safe distancing. When possible, follow safe social distancing of at least 6 feet, even when wearing a mask.

“COVID-19 is primarily spread from person to person through respiratory droplets released into the air when coughing, sneezing, talking or singing,” Dr. Rajapakse says. “When you’re unable to wear a mask, such as when eating in the cafeteria, social distancing is even more critical to reduce the risk of virus transmission.”

Wear a mask. Wear a mask to limit the spread of respiratory droplets.

“It’s a great idea for students, teachers and staff to keep a clean backup mask somewhere convenient, like their backpack, locker or desk,” notes Dr. Rajapakse. “Make sure to clearly label your child’s mask with his or her name, and teach children never to share or trade masks with others.”

Clean your hands frequently. Wash your hands with soap and water, or apply and use hand sanitizer frequently. For appropriate use of hand sanitizer, follow these steps:

– Apply one to two squirts of sanitizer to the palm of one hand, enough to cover all surfaces of the hands.

– Rub the sanitizer over all the surfaces of hands, fingers and nails until dry. This should take at least 20 seconds.

– Keep a to-go size hand sanitizer container nearby.

Cleaning hands regularly throughout the day is very important, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, or before and after touching shared surfaces or your mask,” Dr. Rajapakse says.

Disinfect high-touch surfaces. Disinfect surfaces routinely and immediately if they become visibly soiled. Disinfect items frequently touched such as light switches, door handles, faucets and keyboards.

Perform symptom self-checks and stay home if sick. Every day before going to school, check for symptoms of illness, especially COVID-19 symptoms, such as new-onset cough or shortness of breath. If you are sick, avoid spreading germs by staying home from school or other activities.

“Even though it may seem like just a minor runny nose or cough, staying home from school or work is the right thing to do to reduce the risk of exposing others to not only COVID-19, but other respiratory viruses like influenza, as well,” Dr. Rajapakse says. “Everyone over 6 months old is strongly recommended to get an influenza vaccine this fall. During this pandemic, we have also seen many children fall behind on their routine vaccines so it is important to check with your primary care provider and ensure all of your child’s vaccines are up to date prior to returning to school.”

School year will be a challenge. No matter which learning model is chosen by communities, the school year is going to be challenging.

“We know how important schools and teachers are, supporting students’ education, social development and mental health,” Dr. Rajapakse says. “Ultimately, how to participate in school will be a family decision, weighing all the factors in your specific circumstances—your own family’s health risks, the academic needs of your children, your work demands and, of course, the amount of COVID-19 transmission in your communities.” 2020© Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

The post Complete Your COVID-19 Back-to-School Checklist appeared first on RISMedia.

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Infectious diseases A-Z: the fight against antibiotic resistance

Dreamstime | Overuse and misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotics have been credited with saving countless lives.

Penicillin, discovered in 1928 by Sir Alexander Fleming, is recognized as one of the greatest advances in therapeutic medicine. The life-saving drug, which was first mass produced in the U.S. during World War II, helped launch the golden era of antibiotics.

Today, medical researchers have a concern about these medications: overuse and misuse of antibiotics, leading to antibiotic resistance. Mayo Clinic pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse says antibiotic resistance is a serious public health threat.

“We are at the threshold of a post-antibiotic era — a time where the antibiotics we currently have will not work due to bacteria becoming resistant to them,” says Rajapakse. “This could mean that even a simple skin infection or urinary tract infection could become untreatable. This would also affect our ability to provide other important lifesaving therapies like chemotherapy or organ transplants whose success depends on our ability to treat the complications and risks associated with them — one of the biggest of which is infections. We really need to start acting now to prevent this from happening.”

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Should You Get Vaccinated?

A healthy body is your best defense against sickness. Our body is naturally equipped with antibodies that can fight off infections on its own. However, with the numerous stressors we face each day and the fact that even bacteria themselves evolve to become resistant to antibiotics.

Hence, getting yourself vaccinated is the best recourse to protecting yourself from illness and ensure you are always in great shape to do what you need to do each day. Infants and young children are required to get certain vaccinations and as we grew up, we think less and less of it unless we are asked to do so, like annual flu shots perhaps. Now, the question is, do we really need to get vaccinated or can we just rely on our natural antibodies to get us through our lifetime?

There are a number of reasons why adults need vaccines.

Vaccines wear off with time

Some vaccines given during childhood wear off with time. As a result, a booster shot(s) is needed during adulthood.

The dosing and timing varies, but an example is diphtheria and tetanus vaccines that require a booster every 10 years, even for adults.

Some infections are especially dangerous for older adults

Some diseases are especially dangerous and more common in adults, particularly those with weakened immune systems and the elderly. Vaccines do exist that prevent infections like influenza, shingles, and pneumococcal disease in this population.

Special circumstances

Under certain situations or circumstances, such as travel or working in a high risk occupation, some vaccines need to be administered to protect adults form infections. These include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Yellow fever and  Rabies.

Indirect protection of young children and others

Although there are effective vaccines that protect against common childhood infections, some vaccines are not able to be given to young infants especially those under 12 months of age.

Still other vaccines need several doses in order to offer full protection.

So, if these young children are exposed to an infection, they are at risk for getting it as they are not fully protected.

(Via: http://www.standard-freeholder.com/2017/03/22/immunizations-arent-just-for-children----health-matters)

While many are clueless as to the value of immunization, it helps to learn about these things like immunization schedule according to your age and what immunizations require follow-up shots or boosters. Another mistake many are guilty of doing that is probably the reason why many diseases are hard to cure these days is too much antibiotic use.

“More and more commonly, we are seeing children who are admitted to the hospital, who have infections with more resistant bacteria than we have been in the past,” says Mayo Clinic pediatric infectious diseases specialist Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse.

Rajapakse adds, “One of the biggest reasons for this is the amount of antibiotics children are getting now. We know that up to half of antibiotics that are prescribed are either completely unnecessary or inappropriate. By inappropriate, I mean either the dose of the antibiotic is incorrect or the duration or length of time that the antibiotic is prescribed for is incorrect, and that is one of the biggest drivers of resistance.”

She says that the overuse of antibiotics is the single biggest driver in antibiotic resistance.

What can parents do?

Encouraging good hand hygiene, staying up-to-date on vaccinations and good communication with your child’s health care provider are all ways parents can have an active role in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

“The best way to avoid recurrently being exposed to antibiotics is to prevent yourself or your child from getting infections in the first place,” says Rajapakse.

(Via: http://www.detroitnews.com/story/life/2017/04/03/multidrug-resistant-infections-rising-children/100000600/)

And cliché as it may seem, prevention is still better than cure. Why let yourself go under undue stress, pain, and discomfort when just a shot of a vaccine can protect you from most illnesses that plague everyone around you.

A 2014 study suggested the flu vaccine reduced children’s risk of flu-related pediatric intensive care unit admission by 74 percent during the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 flu seasons, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The agency estimates that from the 1976-1977 season to the 2006-2007 flu season, flu-associated deaths ranged from a low of about 3,000 to a high of about 49,000 people overall. The elderly, young and immunosuppressed are especially at risk of suffering flu complications. It is unclear whether Piper had any underlying health conditions that would have increased her chance of serious illness.

(Via: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2016/11/01/woman-whose-daughter-died-after-skipping-flu-shot-raising-awareness-vaccine.html)

We all have a responsibility to take good care of our health and that of the people we love. And getting immunized is one of the best and easy ways to do that. In just one shot, you no longer have to worry about getting the constant flu that plagues most people you know. If you get sick all the time or is either a child or the elderly, this is also the solution you are looking for. There’s no question now whether you need a vaccine or not, the question is which one you need now.

The following blog article Should You Get Vaccinated? was initially published on https://www.degrafa.com

from https://www.degrafa.com/should-you-get-vaccinated/