Answering Your Questions About COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

We understand that everyone wants to know about the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and what they can do to stay healthy and safe right now and in the future. It is unquestionably the dominant health topic in the country, and the world, at the moment. That’s why the healthcare providers here at Abraham Family Medicine wanted to take time to answer some common questions about the virus, best practices that we have received, and what we are doing to prevent exposure.

Coronavirus, illness, flu, health, family medicine Question #1: How is the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) different from a normal flu?

There have been many comparisons made between the Coronavirus and the average flu season, but there are key differences to keep in mind. For instance, unlike the flu, there are no approved treatments for the Coronavirus (no Tamiflu equivalent) since it is such a new virus. There is no preventative vaccine available as of yet or immunity that people have built up over time. Also, the probability of developing severe health effects like lung disease are much higher with the Coronavirus than with the flu.

Question #2: What symptoms should I be looking out for?

The most commonly-reported symptoms as of today are fever, coughing, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Some patients with the virus may also experience diarrhea, muscle or joint aches, or headaches, in the early stages of the Coronavirus. These symptoms may be more severe in senior citizens and people with existing health conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular and lung disease.

Question #3: What is the best way to stop the spread of the COVID-19 (Corona) virus?

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Practicing social distancing is highly recommend and in some parts of the state mandatory with the exception those essential workers. That means staying at home other than essential errands (like trips to the doctor, pharmacy or grocery store) and making sure to stay a safe 6 feet away from other people when you encounter them.  Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds regularly, especially after any instance of being outside your home, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid any contact with people who are sick. Practice proper respiratory etiquette (sneeze our cough into a tissue and then wash hands, if tissue is not available use the fold/inside of your elbow). If soap and water is not available, clean your hands with hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.  Even people with no current symptoms may be infected, so it’s important to stay vigilant and responsible for the safety of those around you.

Question #4: What should I do if I begin to experience fever, cough, fatigue and/or shortness of breath?

Call our office to discuss these symptoms. We have staff on hand to answer your questions and/or concerns in addition to recommending that you need to be seen or not. For more severe cases we would recommend you visit your local ER. We recommend any person that begins experiencing these symptoms to immediately self-quarantine your self for 14 days. The only place you should go to is your doctor or local ER during this time and you should wear a facemask while out. Please note: during this state of emergency our Abraham Family Medicine is able to offer virtual visits/telehealth, which should be covered by your insurance plan.

Question #5: What is Abraham Family Medicine doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?

We are closely monitoring events in our local community and continuously updating our policies and procedures as a result of new information. We are dedicated to keeping all of our patients and staff as safe and healthy as possible. Abraham Family Medicine is following recommended guidance from public health authorities, including best practice for hygiene, infection control and medical professional team health. These measures include:

  • Increased cleaning in our offices, waiting and exam rooms.
  • Eliminating frequently touched areas such as doorknobs (at the moment, most public doors remain open at all times, no magazines in the waiting room, etc.)
  • Hand sanitizer stations available throughout the office and reception areas
  • Strict hand washing protocols for all employees
  • Strict patient screening process for any patient making an appointment for potential exposure or symptoms of COVD-19
  • Our waiting room is reserved for patients who do not have symptoms and have had no exposure – all other patients are asked to remain in their car until we are ready for them to enter our facility which will be a separate entrance than those patients who are well
  • We are taking temperature checks for anyone entering our office
  • Any Abraham Family Medicine employee who meets any of the CDC COVID-19 exposure guidelines, will be required to follow the CDC guidelines for testing and quarantine
  • We also can provide virtual visits/telehealth for patients who are at high risk or do not want to come into our office at this time. Most insurance companies will reimburse this as if you were in the office. We highly recommend and encourage you to contact our office to schedule a virtual visit.

Question #6: Is it safe to order takeout or delivery food from a restaurant during COVID-19 (Coronavirus) quarantine?

At the moment, health experts including the CDC are saying that it is safe to pick-up food from a restaurant, though this is subject to change. There is very little risk of virus transmission from touching a food container or even a food item itself. It’s important to be responsible and maintain proper distance from others while picking up your good and making sure to thoroughly wash your hands when you are home before eating.

Knowledge is a powerful tool in our current fight against the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) virus and its spread. Since it is so new, there is still so much to learn. But we will continue to update you as we gain more concrete information. In the meantime, we hope everyone will follow these recommendations and remain as safe and responsible as possible. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Abraham Family Medicine today.  Our office is located in Snellville, not far from Grayson, Dacula, Lilburn and Loganville.