The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in cases of influenza, RSV, and norovirus, overwhelming hospitals and emergency departments. To mitigate this strain, it’s essential to know how to manage symptoms at home and when to seek medical care.
According to Richelle Guererro-Wooley, MD, an internal medicine and infectious disease specialist, staying home from work or school is the best way to prevent spreading illness. For respiratory symptoms like coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth, wash your hands frequently, and wear a mask in public if necessary. If you’re experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, stick to one bathroom at home and sanitize surfaces regularly.
Guererro-Wooley advises seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms, such as worsening shortness of breath, fever lasting more than four days, or severe vomiting and diarrhea. In these cases, visiting an urgent care clinic or emergency department may be necessary.
With hospitals at capacity due to the quad-demic, it’s crucial to take precautions and make informed healthcare decisions. Staying home with mild symptoms can ease the burden on the healthcare system, as most mild illnesses resolve on their own.
However, Guerrero-Wooley emphasizes that lingering coughs and congestion can last for weeks after an illness. If you’re otherwise feeling fine, there’s no need to rush to the emergency department.
The good news is that many symptoms can be evaluated virtually, minimizing the risk of spreading illness to others and helping avoid wait times in a clinic. Consider a video visit with your provider if possible.
By taking these steps and being aware of when to seek medical care, we can all play a role in reducing the spread of illness and easing the strain on hospitals.
Source: https://news.llu.edu/health-wellness/navigating-quad-demic-what-you-need-know