Coronavirus.

For the last two years, coronavirus has been the most talked about topic in our everyday lives.  Many of us were terrified (with good reason) when the coronavirus first popped onto the stage.  We didn’t know how to protect ourselves, how to treat it, or how to navigate the issues that came with it (like quarantine).  Now things have changed.  We know a little bit more about the virus and how to manage it.  We also know that it is not going to just up and disappear one day since we continue to see the virus mutate and form new variations.

Coronavirus is no longer as terrifying for most people as it once was.  We are able to carry on with our lives in a relatively normal way–the new norm.  Many of us have received both rounds of the vaccination and some of us have even gotten the booster, which allows us a little more peace of mind.

Here are a few important things to know about coronavirus and our present situation in this country:

1. While there is a vaccine available and a booster for that vaccine, the vaccine will not guarantee that you will not catch coronavirus.  What it does is temper the effects of the virus so that you are not hit with the full force that was previously sending thousands of people to the hospital and stealing the lives and wellbeing of so many.
2. If you have had the vaccine, but are not yet eligible for the booster, you will still be well-protected from the more severe effects of the virus.  You should keep track of when a booster shot will be needed in order to continue to be as protected as possible from the nastiest symptoms of the coronavirus.
3. The more recent variants of the virus are not presenting the same as the original variant.  Many people who get the Omicron variant are experiencing extreme flu-like symptoms (body aches, headaches, fever, chills, hot flashes, gastrointestinal symptoms, cough, and shortness of breath) but they are not reporting the tell-tale loss of taste and smell.  If you have ANY symptoms of illness, it is recommended that you get tested for coronavirus and definitely stay away from our more vulnerable populations (people with weakened immune systems, senior citizens, and children under 5 years old).
4. People who are not vaccinated are still experiencing strong symptoms for longer periods and are still at high risk of being hospitalized, no matter which variant they catch.  If you are sick and know someone who is not vaccinated, stay away from them as much as possible to reduce the risk of them going through this.
5. If you contract coronavirus, follow all of your health providers directions for quarantine, isolation, and masking after symptoms so that you avoid spreading the virus to others.  Be honest with yourself and your health provider about when symptoms start and when they end.
6. Remember to ask any questions you may have to your health provider.
7. Remember that everyone will have a different overall experience with this virus whether they are vaccinated or not.  There is no uniform experience or treatment. Be kind to everyone.
8. Remember to follow all safety precautions to protect yourself and others.

Stay safe and stay healthy!  Take it from someone who has been there, this is not a virus you want to deal with, even if you are fully vaccinated.