2020 will certainly be a year that is hard to forget. As a nation, we are experiencing a virus of epic proportions. Covid19, also known as Novel Coronavirus, has devastated many lives and completely changed the way we live and work.
COVID19 originated in Wuhan, China, and is theorized to have been transferred to humans from bats. Though coronaviruses aren’t new, this particular strain is new to humans and has become a global problem. It is highly contagious and spreads via droplets that come in contact with the three main ports of entry – our eyes, nose, and mouth.
Patients commonly present with fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Additional symptoms include loss of taste and smell, nausea, diarrhea, as well as pneumonia, kidney failure, respiratory failure, neurological problems, and sepsis in those severely affected.
As we learn more about this virus, data has shown that African Americans are disproportionately affected as opposed to other races and ethnicities. The burning question is why? Here are some theories:
- Comorbidities and poorly controlled conditions –African Americans often have more than one chronic disease, which can be associated with poorer health outcomes. A word of advice: Even though you may feel well, take all medications prescribed by your doctor to keep your blood pressure, blood sugar, or other labs and vitals within the normal range.
- Access to healthcare – Access to healthcare has long been a problem in many African American communities and is thought to leave many without adequate care. Undoubtedly, this lack of care has compounded the current challenge of fighting COVID 19. Obtaining healthcare for medical issues is a must to mitigate the risk of the spread of this disease in the African American community.
- Vitamin D deficiency – Current research has postulated that low Vitamin D levels are associated with poorer outcomes from COVID 19. Historically, data has shown that African Americans have lower Vitamin D levels, thought to be due to melanin minimizing absorption of UV rays which subsequently minimizes Vitamin D production. It is important to eat foods rich in Vitamin D like fatty fish, egg yolk, beef liver and dairy products to help maintain adequate levels.
As a Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician, owner of a virtual medicine and concierge medicine practice, and a COVID testing site, here are my 5 tips to stay as safe as possible during this time:
- Build your immune system-eat a healthy diet and consider a multivitamin to give your body its best shot at fighting off any infection. Remember to talk to your doctor about supplements before taking them, specifically regarding Vitamin D.
- Stay home – The safest recommendation to prevent contracting COVID 19 is to stay home which largely limits your risk of exposure.
- Wash your hands-This age-old hygiene tip never changes. Our hands come in contact with many things and people and oftentimes we inadvertently touch our mouth or nose or our eyes. Practice frequent hand washing with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.
- Practice social distancing – If you must venture out for essential items (again the best recommendation is to stay home), please adhere to social distancing – keeping a distance of 6 ft between you and other people.
- Wear a mask – If you must venture out for essentials (again, the best recommendation is to stay home) be sure to wear a mask to minimize droplet exposure.
If you’d like more tips like these, join our Facebook group – The Lively Ones and follow me on all social media at Dr Celeste MD.
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Dr. Celeste Reese-Willis is a highly esteemed Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician, Concierge and Virtual Medicine Program Owner, Best-Selling Author, National Speaker, and media expert. She is a sought-after physician in her community of Birmingham, Alabama, and prides herself in helping busy professionals find solutions for their acute and chronic medical needs. If you need COVID-19 Testing in the Birmingham area, please go to www.drcelestec19.com to schedule your appointment.
