If you’re getting tired of hearing about COVID-19, you’re in good company. For the past year, writers, news anchors and talk show hosts have been covering the topic ad nauseum. But, like it or not, the subject probably won’t likely disappear from headlines anytime soon. The most recent data available, on Worldometer, reports 113,824,567 people have been diagnosed with the illness, also known as the Coronavirus. Worldwide, the death toll stands at 2,524,862.The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) divides COVID-19 into four main sub-groupings:
- Alpha
- Beta
- Gamma
- Delta
About COVID-19
Human coronaviruses were first identified in the mid-1960s. People often get infected with human coronaviruses 229E, NL63, OC43, and HKU1. And, sometimes, coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. Three recent examples of this include: 2019-nCoV, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV.
The Flu May Pose a Greater Risk
Despite the hype, most experts agree that Influenza may actually pose more of a risk to the average man or woman than COVID-19. Consider that, in the U.S. alone so far this season, the flu has caused an estimated 26 million illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths. On the other hand, the average person runs an extremely low risk of catching the novel coronavirus.
Coronavirus Symptoms
The only advantage of the flu over Coronavirus is that, even as three experimental vaccines emerging, scientists understand influenza more than they do Covid-19, which is relatively new. In both cases, however, common sense approaches can keep you safe.
Symptoms can include a cough, possibly with a fever and shortness of breath. There are some early reports of non-respiratory symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Many people recover within a few days. However, some people — especially the very young, elderly, or people who have a weakened immune system — may develop a more serious infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. And long-term complications may include brain fog, heart attacks and prolonged fatigue.
Flu Symptoms
Usually comes on suddenly and includes some (or all) of the following symptoms:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
How to Avoid Catching the Coronavirus and/or the Flu
- Wash your hands regularly.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue (then throw it away), or your inner elbow.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands.
- Stay home from work or school if you have a fever.
- Avoid people who show signs of a respiratory tract infection, such as runny nose, coughing, and sneezing.
- It’s still not too late to get a flu shot, an easy step toward avoiding the flu. If you do catch the flu despite having received the vaccine, studies show that severe illness, hospitalization, ICU admission, and death are less likely to occur than for people who contract the flu without the benefit of vaccination.
Don’t Avoid the Dentist
We believe the inherent risk to your teeth associated with skipping regular dental appointments outweighs your chance of contracting COVID-19 by leaving your home. Book an appointment for a cleaning and checkup at Blue Ocean Dentistry today by calling (626) 852-6999. You can rest assured we take every precaution to ensure the safety of each of our patients. We use PPE, enforce mask wearing and social distancing. What’s more, our entire staff has been vaccinated for the Coronavirus. So, don’t put off dental care.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.