Coronavirus (Covid-19)


The coronavirus is one of the most contagious viruses that the world has ever encountered. Important strides have been made in the battle against the deadly virus and Covid-19. Current vaccines have demonstrated a high degree of efficacy, and safety profile. The benefits significantly outweigh the potential risks. The virus has been partially contained in some societies, but nowhere has it been stopped or eradicated. The goal line is close but it is premature to spike the ball and claim victory before we actually cross it.

There are many communities, counties, cities and countries where the threats of the coronavirus, the delta variant, the omicron variant, and other potential mutations continue. We all remain in the eye of the storm, and cannot afford to drop our guard. Public health and scientific experts have the responsibility to provide clear, unambiguous and reliable epidemiological and research data to guide the decision making of governments, authorities, and individuals alike. The world is a global village.  The pandemic is a global threat, and the solution requires a global effort. Wealthier nations have a responsibility to help and support the public health resources of less affluent societies.  No one country can be truly free of covid-19 until the whole world is free. Then, and only then can we collectively shout “Thank God, Mission Accomplished.”

We should remember the preventive measures that we can take to reduce the spread of the Covid-19 virus and its multiple variants and mutations, and protect our self, family, friends, and community. They should be continued until otherwise advised by public health authorities.

1. Use of a close fitting face mask that fully covers the nose, mouth, and chin. A face shield alone does not meet these criteria.

2. Proper hygiene with hand washing using soap and water, and where available use of a sanitizer.

3. Physical spacing, which is my preferred terminology, but is commonly erroneously referred to as social distancing.

4. Avoidance of crowds.

5. Covid-19 Viral Testing when there are suspicious symptoms, or shortly before traveling outside one’s usual physical environment.

6. Staying informed and up to date with medical and regulatory guidelines. Misinformation can be very harmful, so stick with reputable sources of information such as the sites provided below.

We are each other’s keepers! The performance and tireless devotion to duty of frontline healthcare personnel, and other essential workers, reminds us that not all heroes wear capes. Some wear white coats, scrubs, or bouffants, and others wear helmets, or toque hats. Some with the right stuff wear their wings on their chests, and there are others who show their stuff by keeping the wheels rolling.  Lest we forget, some heroes wear the scars of triumph over trauma and tribulation.

Be well and be safe. We are all in this together. We all breathe the same air.

Click on a site to get information…

Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus and COVID-19 Website

Centers for Disease Control COVID-19 Vaccine Site Finder

National Institutes of Health Research Information

UNICEF Information Center

WHO Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) Situation Reports

Covid-19 Fact Sheets in 30+ Languages

Johns Hopkins Medicine Coronavirus Facts Infographic

Mass General Brigham Covid-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions

Massachusetts Covid Vaccine Sites and Appointments

Free Telehealth for Covid-19 Treatment with Paxlovid