Coronavirus is at the top of all of our minds these days. I’m Dr. Jeremiah Carlson. Here at Jacksonville Chiropractic and Acupuncture, I’m receiving a lot of questions from our community.

What Is the Coronavirus?

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus that attacks the respiratory system and is highly contagious. When we use the term coronavirus right now, we are referring to COVID-19, but coronaviruses really belong to a large group of viruses that range from the common cold to the much more severe SARS, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome.

Today’s coronavirus that communities worldwide are rushing to contain is the coronavirus disease COVID-19. The actual virus that causes COVID-19 is called SARS-CoV-2, which stands for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

COVID-19 is the disease. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease. One of the best ways in general to prevent illness is to increase your overall health and wellness. Here are some steps you and your loved ones can take to keep your bodies strong and healthy:

Coronavirus Facts and Tips to Protect You and Your Family

Self-Isolate and Social Distancing Rationale

COVID-19 is a new virus so nobody is immune to it. Eventually, the majority of us will be exposed to it, most with mild complications.

This virus is highly contagious, and it is possible to spread it to others before you fully realize you have it. Medical facilities and community support systems can become overwhelmed if too many emergency patients require treatment at the same time.

In Italy, there was a shortage of hospital space, respirators, and staff and an enormous influx of critical COVID-19 patients in a very short span of time. Doctors had to choose which patients to treat because it was impossible to treat everyone. This is a situation none of us want.

Social distancing aims to reduce transmission of the virus and allow medical teams adequate time, space, and resources to manage patients requiring treatment. It also delays or minimizes the spread of the virus.

As we learn more about the Coronavirus, medical experts are able to refine treatment strategies. A cure does not currently exist, but there are steps, like self-isolating and social distancing, that you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your community.

Prepare but Don’t Panic

It is important to be prepared. It’s helpful to make a list of essential items your family needs to function. Water, pantry items, medications, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, and paper products like toilet paper are necessary.

If you are working from home, do you have all the equipment necessary to complete your work? Is your workspace set up ergonomically?

Do you have activities for your children that will combat boredom? There are many great resources online for more ideas.

Is your home arranged for activity? Prior to the Coronavirus, many of us spent the majority of our days outside the home. It can be quite an adjustment to remain at home for extended periods. Having a space to meditate, stretch, and exercise will keep you feeling your best.

At Jacksonville Chiropractic and Acupuncture, we focus on returning your body to wellness. Read How to Prepare Now for the Coronavirus, by Dr. Jeremiah Carlson, for more suggestions to help you and your family prepare for the Coronavirus.