Alva Review-Courier -

Alright, let’s talk about the virus in the room. COVID-19 is much on everyone’s mind. I want to give some facts the Legislature received from the state health commissioner.

He said the reason such extreme measures are being taken – schools, many restaurants and other venues closed, people being advised to not meet in gatherings of larger than 10 at a time, etc. – are because this is a novel virus, one that has not been seen in its present form before. It spreads fast from human to human and some countries that were unprepared saw high initial mortality rates. As of this writing, we have 67 confirmed cases in Oklahoma and two deaths.

I believe this number will greatly increase this week as the turnaround time on testing will be decreasing. Last week, it was taking 5-9 days to get test results back. This week, projected turnaround will be approximately 1-2 days. Also, up until this last week the availability of test kits has been limited so practitioners had to be selective on who they tested.

That said, most people experience only mild symptoms – fever, cough and shortness of breath are the main indicators. Older people or those with underlying health conditions are more at risk and are being advised to stay out of the public for now. It is recommended that only those with severe symptoms seek care at a hospital. For one, if you don’t have the virus you don’t want to be in a waiting room with those who might. Before visiting your doctor or rural clinic, please call ahead. Many clinics are offering telemedicine where the doctor can do an office visit over the internet and during the national emergency these visits can be done over an increased number of social media platforms.

If you have questions, of course call your doctor, or the State Health Department has established a 24/7 hotline: (877) 215-8336 and a website: https://coronavirus.health.ok.gov.

As with any communicable disease, continue to practice good hygiene – wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, cough into a tissue that you throw away or your elbow, and continue the practice of social distancing. Standard disinfectant wipes will work to keep surfaces clean.

Most of all, stay calm. I know the world feels chaotic right now, but we will get through this. Please pray. Believe me, our God is greater than any virus. Pray for neighbors, especially our health care workers who are on the front lines in this battle, the leaders of our state and nation, your family, and yourselves.

Take this time to connect with others through technology. We are all isolated in different ways and we all need to know people care. You can reestablish friendships and also check in on those in need without endangering yourself or others.

I will keep you posted on this and other issues in the coming weeks. Remember, you can always reach me at 405-557-7339 or [email protected]. Thanks for allowing me to serve you. May God bless you and Oklahoma!