COVID-19 Update - 20 Feb 2022
2022 starts the year with more headlines from omicron to Olympics to local and world politics. There are many stresses on all of us. Let's work through this together. Talk to us.
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The highly contagious omicron is the dominant strain in our communities, being >80% of cases. It tends to be mild flu-like, mostly for those vaccinated than not. However, it can still cause more hospital grade illness than the typical flu. Vaccination, boosters, and reasonable masking/distancing as well as isolation when sick remain our best efforts to return to more open communities quickly.
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Travel remains precarious as the rules of travel continue to evolve with little warning or predictability. If traveling abroad, or even to another province, make sure you know what the local rules are, and have plans in case they change, or your health changes.
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Home rapid antigen tests are becoming more available for rapid screening. Due to inaccuracies of a negative result, you may need to perform multiple testings over days. Positive results are highly accurate. PCR testing from AHS is generally reserved for those with significant health problems. There are new medications (IV and oral) that may help treat mild COVID symptoms in select PCR positive unvaccinated or immune-compromised patients. Click here for information regarding sotrovimab (intravenous) or Paxlovid (oral).
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The Alberta Medical Association and Alberta Health Services are maintaining frequently updated resource sites with current information. Click AMA here and AHS here. The information includes symptoms, testing, and home management.
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Focus Health will continue our clinic policy of doctors and staff wearing masks. We ask that patients entering our clinic also wear a mask and respect distancing. Please let us know your vaccination status, as part of your health management, and to appropriately prepare for your visit. Medical clinics are places where illnesses of all sorts are treated, and that sometimes means spreadable infections. In addition, we also care for patients with reduced immunity and require extra protection. We appreciate everyone's patience, understanding and help.
Thank you and stay well.
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