All articles tagged with #mask wearing
With rising norovirus cases, infectious disease doctors recommend hand washing with soap and water, avoiding sick individuals, disinfecting surfaces with bleach, and wearing masks when caring for someone sick to reduce transmission, although the CDC primarily emphasizes hand hygiene and surface cleaning.
To avoid getting ill before Christmas, the article recommends wearing masks if symptomatic, getting a flu jab, using nasal sprays at first symptoms, eating chicken soup, taking zinc lozenges when needed, and maintaining good hygiene. It also suggests rehydration, moderate alcohol intake, and considering vitamin D supplements over vitamin C for immune support, along with simple remedies like peppermint for congestion and over-the-counter medications for indigestion. Staying cautious and proactive can help navigate the winter health risks.
The CDC is considering changing COVID-19 isolation guidelines to depend on symptoms rather than a set number of days, potentially normalizing COVID alongside other respiratory infections. Experts stress personal responsibility, vaccination, and masking, especially for high-risk individuals. The proposed change acknowledges the challenges of prolonged isolation and the impact of at-home testing. While the shift reflects a transition to treating COVID as an endemic disease, it's crucial to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect oneself and the community.
As winter arrives, doctors see an increase in illnesses like the common cold, flu, COVID-19, and RSV. While some blame the cold weather, experts suggest that being indoors more, increased contact with others, and drier air may contribute to the spread of viruses. Studies also indicate that our immune systems may not function as well in colder weather. To prevent illness, it is important to wash hands frequently, avoid touching the nose, and separate from sick individuals. Vaccinations, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines, are recommended. Wearing masks in shared spaces and staying home when feeling sick are also advised.
A family in the UK, still "shielding" due to COVID more than three years after the pandemic began, feels forgotten as the rest of the world moves on. The family, consisting of a wife in remission from blood cancer, a daughter with cerebral palsy, and a former healthcare worker husband, has had to isolate since March 2020. Despite the wife receiving seven COVID jabs, she reportedly has no protection from the virus. The family has faced challenges, including job loss, abuse for mask-wearing, and missed moments with loved ones. They hope a drug trial called Supernova could offer a way out of their isolation.
To prevent catching a cold, experts recommend washing hands frequently, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, getting enough sleep, practicing healthy habits, and considering wearing a mask, especially in crowded spaces. While supplements like zinc, vitamin C, and probiotics are commonly used, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. It's important to consult a doctor before trying any new supplements. If symptoms worsen or if there are underlying health conditions, it's advisable to seek medical care. Ultimately, a cold will run its course and does not require specific medication or antibiotics.
Differences in COVID mitigations have led to the breakup of many relationships, as highlighted in a thread where users shared their heartbreaking stories. From losing family and friends who refuse to wear masks to experiencing isolation and differing standards for COVID safety, these stories reflect the strain the ongoing pandemic has placed on relationships. Navigating relationships during this time remains challenging, with no end in sight as surges and mutations of the virus continue. It is a reminder that many are still struggling with the effects of COVID, and while there may not be easy answers, those facing similar challenges are not alone.
The lack of testing data is making it difficult to determine the current spread of COVID-19, despite increasing key metrics and hospitalizations. Wastewater surveillance suggests the virus is as prevalent now as it was in early January. Without accurate data, it becomes challenging to effectively address the three pillars of public health response: data collection, testing, and treatment. Healthcare providers recommend reinstating previous practices, such as wearing masks, to mitigate the risk of infection. With children returning to school and the respiratory virus season approaching, health officials anticipate a continued upward trend in COVID-19 cases.
With a spike in COVID cases in the US and concerns about contracting the virus during his upcoming book tour, the author emphasizes the importance of wearing masks at airports and on planes. They also urge attendees of their events to consider wearing masks and check event information for any mask requirements. The author attributes their current allergies to ragweed and climate change, expressing gratitude for not having COVID but acknowledging the challenges posed by the pandemic.
As Covid-19 continues to surge and immunity from vaccinations wanes, many people are experiencing Covid apathy and fatigue, leading to resistance or denial of safety protocols. Stress management experts suggest that accepting the reality of Covid and finding ways to cope is crucial. This includes recognizing the potential for societal PTSD and seeking therapy if needed. To regain a sense of control, individuals can draw on past experiences of overcoming challenges and find joy in life. Viewing stress as a normal part of life and using tools like exercise, mindfulness, deep breathing, and humor can help reduce tension. Getting the Covid-19 booster vaccination and showing grace towards others' mask-wearing choices are also recommended.
Doctors are reporting an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, particularly in South Carolina, as students return to classrooms. The exact number of cases is difficult to track due to at-home testing, which doesn't have to be reported to health departments. However, hospitalizations have more than doubled compared to last month. The rise is attributed to a new COVID variant that is more easily transmissible but does not cause worse symptoms. Schools are not requiring mask-wearing or social distancing but are following protocols for positive cases. Health experts advise at-risk individuals to wear masks, maintain social distancing, and stay updated on COVID shots and boosters. A new COVID vaccine booster shot is expected in September to protect against the newer variant.
As the EG.5 and FL.1.5.1 variants of COVID-19 continue to spread, a Staten Island infectious disease specialist advises vulnerable individuals, such as those over 65 or immunocompromised, to wear masks and be cautious. Both variants are descendants of the omicron variant and share similar symptoms. While hospitalizations have increased, respiratory failure is not commonly observed. The upcoming bivalent booster is expected to provide protection against these variants. People are advised to stay indoors if they test positive and to wear masks when going outside. The at-home COVID tests can detect the new variants, and individuals testing positive should avoid public spaces.
People in Japan are taking smiling lessons after three years of government recommendations to wear masks. Since the recent lifting of mask rules, many people have struggled to adjust to life without face coverings and have forgotten how to smile. Sessions organised by the Akabane Elderly Relief Centre have grown in popularity with more people requesting individual lessons since the end of last year. Smiling has many benefits, including living a longer life and lowering blood pressure.
An employee who has worked for the same company for over 30 years is ready to retire and wonders how much notice to give. The columnist suggests three months would be generous, but ultimately the employee should do what they want. The employee also feels hurt by the lack of recognition for their work anniversaries. In another question, a woman is hesitant to meet her obnoxious nephew's fiancée, but the columnist advises her to accept the invitation with an open and inclusive attitude. The column ends with a humorous response to a reader's comment on mask-wearing.