COVID19: Updates From The Hospital

Latest Updates:

From the Hospital:

Over the past few weeks, my colleagues and I at the hospital have noticed an uptick in COVID hospitalizations. Similar to other respiratory viruses, COVID is seasonal (typically starting in late August and continuing through winter), so though this isn't entirely unexpected, we've been surprised by the high numbers. For reference: Previously we could go several months without seeing a single COVID patient and now up to 20% of our patients are admitted with COVID.

All cases so far have involved high risk patients: Smokers, elderly patients, patients with COPD, obesity and untreated sleep apnea, transplant recipients on immune blockers and patients with congestive heart failure (off the top of my head). None have been up to date on their boosters.

From the Clinic:

Thankfully most of the cases seen in clinic are still on the milder side and there are effective steps we can take to prevent high risk patients from progressing to severe disease.

Steps to Take:

If you are high-risk:

• If you are a smoker, quit now. Your doctor can help you with this.

• If you’re due for a COVID booster, get it now.

• If you're due for a vaccination for another respiratory infection (such as the pneumococcal vaccine or the flu vaccine), get it now. Having COVID and flu at the same time can be catastrophic. I've seen it.

• See your doctor and make sure your medical conditions are optimized. For example, if your diabetes is uncontrolled, now is the time to redouble your efforts and/or adjust medication dosing to achieve better control.

• Try to avoid tight crowds if possible (concerts, public transportation). If not, wear a mask.

• Mask up around children, who are often asymptomatic carriers. A common scenario is grandma/grandpa landing in the hospital with COVID after their grandkids came to visit. Young children who attend daycare are especially dangerous! (I'm only half joking)

• If you develop respiratory symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible. Medications that prevent progression to severe disease only work if initiated early.

• Also follow the advice listed below.

If you are low-risk:

• Wash your hands often.

• If you’re sick, please stay home to avoid infecting others. If that's not possible, wear a mask.

• If you’re frequently around vulnerable loved ones (if grandma lives with you, for example), you should take precautions as if you are high risk yourself. Mask often, avoid crowds etc.

Summary:

COVID season is upon us once again, but if we all take action together, we can protect ourselves and each other. If you’re not sure about your personal risk or vaccine status, reach out—we’re happy to guide you.

By Ziya Aktig, MD