INFORMATION YOU CAN TRUST REGARDING COVID-19
STRESS AND COPING DURING COVID-19
Uncertainty brings uncertainty and uncertainty causes stress and anxiety. This is especially true right now when so much information is being spread through social media and media. There are things you can do to cope and ways to help your children, family, and friends.
OLDER ADULTS
It is true that adults ages 65+ are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Learn how to stay safe.
PEOPLE WITH ASTHMA
Don't believe everything you read! Yes, people with asthma are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 because it attacks the lungs. Yes, the UK has issued a lengthy isolation period for people with asthma and other illnesses. But this is the United States. Learn how to stay safe from the CDC.
PEOPLE WITH DIABETES
People with diabetes who are infected with the coronavirus are more likely to develop severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and complications.They should be especially diligent to reduce risk of exposure, including hand washing, practicing social distancing, and staying home as much as possible.
Managing diabets can be more challenging during this time.
Blood sugars: activity restriction, changes in eating patterns, and illness can all affect blood sugars. Patients should monitor more closely and call their health care team if they are having problems.
Medications: patients should ensure they have sufficient medications and call their health care team if they need refills.
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To reduce the risk of coronavirus exposure, avoid going to the clinic unless necessary. Patients who develop mild symptoms should monitor their blood sugars, stay well hydrated, and call their health care team with concerns. For severe symptoms, seek medical care right away.
PEOPLE WITH HEART DISEASE OR HYPERTENSION
The American Heart Association is advising caution and preparation for people who have heart disease or who have survived a stroke. Based on current information, it appears elderly people with coronary heart disease or hypertension are more likely to be infected and to develop more severe symptoms. Stroke survivors may also face increased risk for complications if they get COVID-19.
PEOPLE WITH HIV
The risk from immune suppression is not known, but with other viral respiratory infections, the risk for people with HIV getting very sick is greatest in:
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People with a low CD4 cell count, and
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People not on HIV treatment (antiretroviral therapy or ART).
People with HIV can also be at increased risk of getting very sick with COVID-19 based on their age and other medical conditions.
The health and safety of our patients and our staff is top priority. We are actively monitoring the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and are following expert guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH). IHCRC’s Infection Control Committee works together daily to prevent the spread of ALL infections.
We have taken the following steps to ensure the safety of our patients and our staff.
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Everyone entering the building is being screened according to CDC and OSDH guidelines.
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Our priority is on acute care.
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Family members and friends of patients are being asked not to enter the clinic. For now, exceptions include children under 13 or family members/friends who are needed for physical or other assistance.
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Medications are only available at our our drive thru pharmacy.
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ALL meetings, groups, and classes have been cancelled to reduce the number of people entering the building.
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Our gym has been closed.
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Enhanced cleaning practices are being initiated for solid surfaces during this time.
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Routine appointments are being rescheduled for a later date.
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We highly recommend that our patients with underlying health issues, especially those over the age of 50 stay home as much as possible,
If you have questions, please visit our Facebook page and our website FIRST. If you still have questions, call and speak to a medical staff member at (918) 588-1900. Please be patient. As you can imagine, everyone has questions right now.