Everyday we are confronted with new information about COVID-19 from the news, concerned family members, and occasionally WhatsApp memes and conspiracy theories. Have all your COVID questions answered by a panel of three doctors from our community: Internist, Dr. Rasha Saleem; Pediatrician, Dr. Qadira Ali Huff; and Surgeon, Dr. Samaneh Ashktorab. We will cover topics such as best practices to keep your family safe, when to be tested, what you should do if you’ve been near an infected person, and how to talk to your kids about the virus.
COVID-19 RESOURCES
Monitoring Symptoms
Doctors recommend utilizing a pulse oximeter to monitor your oxygen levels. This can prove useful if you are consulting with a doctor virtually regarding your symptoms. Click here to see one example of an oximeter you can purchase online.
Getting Tested
Testing is available on a priority basis and through your health care providers. Certain jurisdictions have begun offering drive by testing. Please see this flyer to determine if you are in a priority group and what your options may be.
Children and COVID
Click here for a great comic explaining COVID for young children found on the NPR website.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has this helpful resource for parents regarding coronavirus and everything else under the sun related to children’s health:
For parents seeking wellness inspiration and information (and many actionable tips for staying well & sane during the pandemic), follow our panelist, Qadira Ali Huff on Instagram.
Clinical Trials and Post Recovery Plasma Donations
Currently researchers around the world are working actively to understand this novel virus. If you would like to participate in a clinical trial, you can find local trials that are recruiting by clicking here.
If you are interested in donating towards a Plasma bank, you must be asymptomatic for 14 days and then have a negative swab (which the bank may administer). If you are further out from symptoms (28 days), you will not require a negative test. Learn more: https://www.uscovidplasma.org/
Locally, both Johns Hopkins and Georgetown have programs. To participate in either program, contact:
John Hopkins: iburges3@jhmi.edu
Georgetown: Michael.R.Cook@gunet.georgetown.edu
How to Help During this Pandemic
COVID19 has left individuals in a place of need. Not only are healthcare workers stretched thin and relying on scant supplies of protective equipment, but the pandemic has left many low wage and service workers in financial instability. The article below has several ways in which you can help feed the hungry, help protect healthcare workers, aid refugees, or support service workers who have been laid off or are struggling to make ends meet.
https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/13/us/how-to-help-coronavirus-pandemic-iyw-trnd/index.html
More Information
As always, please visit the CDC website for the most current information.