March updates

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 I realized that I haven't written anything about COVID since January--I'm pretty happy about that! January was horrible in the hospitals, but it has gotten much better. I can now go several shifts without seeing any COVID! Having said that, we are seeing an uptrend in cases in Europe and the UK (see graphic), and some regional increases in US wastewater. This is a bit concerning--no need to panic, just be aware and prepare. And be happy that we're moving back toward a state of normality, with caution.

Here are some quick recommendations:
1. MONITOR YOUR LOCAL NUMBERS: Your risk depends on what's around you. Like monitoring the weather, I monitor my local numbers. Keep in mind that actual case numbers may be higher than they appear due to many people performing home tests. Wastewater surveillance is also a promising method to monitor for many infectious diseases, including COVID. To keep an eye on my local cases and hospitalizations I like https://covidactnow.org/ or CDC has community-level info at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html

2. MASKS: With the current low numbers in my local area, I stopped wearing a mask in less crowded settings. I keep one in my pocket and if I'm in a crowded area indoors or someone is coughing near me in line, I'll put it on. If the numbers start to spike again, I'll wear it again. That's my method. We also gave our kids the option to wear or not, now that the numbers are low. Masks really DO work to prevent spread of COVID and other viruses (there's plenty of data to support that statement, I'm happy to provide references). CDC has a link for free masks, if you'd like: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/free-masks.html

3. VACCINATIONS: Get 'em, they work. Mountains of data/evidence is available to support vaccinations in the prevention of severe COVID, with few serious side effects reported (again, I'm happy to provide references, beyond my own experiences).

4. TESTS: Now is the time to stock up on a few extra tests, while the demand is low. Don't go crazy, but having a few tests around is helpful if cases start to spike again. Free tests, shipped to your door by USPS, are available at: https://www.covidtests.gov/

That's all. Have a nice day!

DocOsner



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