Fact vs Fear: Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Greetings!

I want to take a moment to answer some of the questions I've been getting from patients regarding the new Coronavirus that has been making headlines. Primarily, I want to reassure my patients and their families that I am confident in our US medical system and ability to mitigate health crises. Secondly, what we know about the virus is changing by the hour. I am staying abreast of developments and consulting with infectious disease colleagues. Finally, as with ANY VIRUS, the same protective rules apply: hand washing, covered coughs and sneeze, limit ill contact and increase awareness. If you suspect you are ill, as with ANY VIRUS, seek medical treatment and limit exposure.

Overall please know that if Coronavirus becomes a widespread issue in our area you will receive the best possible care with up-to-date treatment. I encourage you to click the links and images below for more details. And, as always, reach out to me with your questions or concerns.

In Good Health,
Dr. Lowery
Knowledge is Power
WHY DID IT SPREAD SO QUICKLY?
Unlike more deadly viruses, Coronavirus (and Influenza A&B) travel because infected people are often capable of travel. Milder symptoms mean people go to work, school, and airports instead of quarantined hospital beds. This human mobility spreads the virus rapidly.
SHOULD I WEAR A MASK?
Studies have shown masks fairly ineffective at PROTECTION unless you are caring for the ill. However, if you are symptomatic wearing a mask may prevent SPREADING disease.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
The United States is deploying resources and instructions to the medical community. Experts claim that widespread Coronavirus may be met with a vaccine within 12-18 months.
IS THIS LIKE REGULAR FLU?
It is not dissimilar. Coronavirus appears to share many of the same symptoms and spread in a similar fashion. Like flu, there is no "cure" so we treat the symptoms.
The death rate may also be similar, but right now experts agree that misdiagnosis is skewing that number.
Unlike Flu A&B, testing is not readily available yet and no vaccine is available yet.

Flu infects about 25-45 million Americans per year, and nearly 60,000 die of flu-related illnesses.
REPUTABLE INFO SOURCES
The media can cause panic and confusion.
Consider the source. Also check the publication date for outdated info.
TRUSTED SOURCE LINKS:
AMA: American Medical Assoc
WHO: World Health Organization
CDC: Center for Disease Control
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Frisco, TX 75034
STAY WELL. AS ALWAYS, CALL US IF YOU NEED US.

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