Coronavirus: what you need to know

In the past few weeks, there’s been a flood of information across the news and social media around the novel coronavirus. With so much information out there, we wanted to break down a few commonly asked questions so you can stay informed.

What is coronavirus?

Coronavirus (aka COVID-19) is a virus that causes flu-like symptoms of cough, fever, and shortness of breath. While COVID-19 can get severe and has caused fatalities, that vast majority of cases are mild. That being said, it is incredibly contagious so it’s important to take care of yourself. 

How does coronavirus spread? 

COVID-19 is spread through person to person contact when an infected droplet (from a sneeze or cough) lands near or on someone else and is inhaled. It is also possible for the virus to be spread through surfaces. While this is not the main cause of spread, this it can happen when someone touches a surface/object that has the virus on it, and then touches their own nose, mouth, or eyes. 

Why are people prepping?

It has been recommended to have a 14 day supply of your basic needs such as food and supplies, and at least 30 days of medicine and prescriptions on hand. This will allow you to stay indoors if you get sick or if the virus gets worse in your area.  

Additionally, stocking up now will take the burden off of medical professionals as more people need medical attention (aka save the doctor’s appointments for those who really need them).

When it comes to your birth control, if you're looking for a way to get automatic refills from home, we offer birth control prescriptions online and the medication in one or three month packages. If you're a current patient, you can update your frequency, next shipment date and shipping address in your account or reach out to us at team@simplehealth.com if you have questions or need help.

As for other medications, we suggest you call your pharmacy, insurance provider or doctor to coordinate extra refills. 

How to *actually* implement staying healthy

When it comes to staying healthy, there are simple and easy steps you can take to help reduce your risk. While social distancing, working from home and limiting travel is one primary way to avoid exposure, we also understand that many people can’t simply ‘just stay home,’ so here are some suggestions that can help those on the go as well.

The basics:

1. Wash your hands:

While pretty straight forward, there is a best-in-class technique to help minimize as many germs as possible. Check it out below.

2. Move away:

If someone is coughing or sneezing near you, move as far away as you are able. This can help prevent potentially infected droplets from entering your system. 

3. Delivery services:

Getting your supplies such as food and medications delivered to your home can help cut down on any chaos and keep you farther away from any potentially infected people. 

Bonus points: 

1. Sleep:

Letting your body rest, no matter the scenario, is a key part of staying healthy. 

2. Less socializing:

If you can’t skip work, skip some social outings. Cutting back any kind of exposure to others can be helpful in lowering risk of transmission. 

3. Eat your greens:

Aka just eat a little healthier (and drink a little less alcohol) than normal. This will give your body much needed nutrients and energy. 

4. Stay hydrated:

Keeping your body hydrated allows you to flush out and filter toxins or waste from your system as well as aiding in coughing out any congestion and mucus.

5. Less smoking:

Since the coronavirus is a respiratory illness, it’s recommended to stop or cut back on smoking or vaping. 

6. Maintain coughing and sneezing etiquette:

Remember to sneeze or cough into your elbows, not your hands, to help stop the spread of germs. 

7. Keep calm:

To help keep any extra stress at bay, make sure you carve out time to relax, exercise or try downloading a meditation/mindfulness app for some guided assistance in relieving stress.