As an ER doctor getting questions about Coronavirus, I want folks to have sound medical advice & correct info about its severity. Unfortunately, things will get worse & the WH response has not been ideal. Here's what you need to know & tips to minimize exposure. Pls share. (1/8)
There are more #Coronavirus cases in the U.S. than we think. We're no longer simply ID'ing folks with a travel history to high exposure areas. Cases are being reported coast to coast & the only reason we don't have more is we're not testing. As a doctor, this is troubling. (2/8)
Because the Administration failed to get accurate test kits out or fully prepare for the crisis, we're no longer in a phase of containment. We're now in "mitigation." That means events may be canceled and schools & businesses closed, to decrease the spread of this disease. (3/8)
What can we do to minimize exposure? Keep alcohol-based sanitizer on you. Avoid crowded areas if possible. If you have minor symptoms (cough, runny nose, fever, aches) stay home, treat symptoms & avoid infecting others. But if symptoms are more severe, please see a doctor. (4/8)
This isn't the common cold. People will die. And under the Administration's proposed cuts to Medicare & Medicaid, millions will lose health care (on top of the 7m who already have on their watch). This is exactly what I confronted @VP on last month: (5/8)
So how bad could Coronavirus be? It could be quite deadly -- especially as folks who don't have insurance or can't afford its costs, don't get help. At the very least, any immunization against this virus needs to be guaranteed to every American regardless of ability to pay. (6/8)
And to ensure the best possible response, medical & public health communities managing this need help from all forms of government. On the federal level we need to take politics (& politicians) out of the response & let medical professionals do our job to manage the crisis. (7/8)
Finally, please remember: Elections matter. When we vote for President, we not only select the individual who can lead in the world that exists now. We're also choosing who has the intellect, temperament & leadership skills needed to preside in the world we cannot imagine. /END.
