U.S. health officials express optimism that COVID-19 will not experience a significant surge, partly because many people contracted the original Omicron variant, providing them with some level of natural or vaccine-induced immunity that can safeguard them against severe sickness and hospitalization.
Expert emergency physician, David Miranda, MD, thinks other factors could potentially transform the COVID-19 wave into a more devastating surge. One particular worry is that less than 70 percent of Americans over 65 have received their first booster shot, leaving a considerable demographic susceptible.
Despite the virus’s unpredictability, there are definitive methods for self-protection. Here are some steps you can take to prepare.
Acquire a Pulse Oximeter
A pulse oximeter is attached to your finger to check the oxygen level in your blood. If these levels fall to 92 or below, seeking medical attention is needed. A decrease in oxygen could be indicative of COVID-19 and escalate your chances of experiencing severe complications from COVID-19.
According to research conducted in South Africa, patients advised to monitor their oxygen saturation at home had approximately a 50% lower risk of succumbing to COVID-19. These devices can be procured from pharmacies or online for around $30. As per researchers, the pulse oximetry reading on an Apple watch might not be as dependable as that from a fingertip device.
Procure Your At-home COVID Tests
Every American household is entitled to receive two sets of four Covid home tests at no cost from the government. It’s recommended to order them promptly, especially before the onset of cold weather. High temperatures could compromise the tests, and it would be unwise to let yours stay in a hot mail truck for extended periods.
Furthermore, those with insurance coverage can seek reimbursement for up to eight free tests each month. If you start experiencing respiratory issues, fever, or unusual fatigue, it’s advised to use one of these tests on the first day of symptoms.
If your symptoms persist and your home test returns negative after a few days, consider getting a lab-based PCR test for confirmation.
Consider a Booster
Federal authorities have approved a secondary booster shot for all individuals 50 and older. This approval also extends to those aged 12 and up with specific susceptibility, including immune deficiencies.
Dr. David Miranda also approves the scientific community’s efforts to analyze an additional booster’s effectiveness continuously. The consensus is that those over 65 and individuals with pre-existing illness or compromised immunity will benefit.
If you have not yet received your initial booster shot and are susceptible with pre-existing conditions, such as individuals with chronic disease or immune-compromise, health experts agree you should get one immediately. Moreover, if you have recovered from COVID-19, you will likely already possess a level of natural immunity equivalent to that offered by a booster shot, at least for a short period. If this is the case, consider your individual situation and needs in consultation with your physician
Health professionals have advised that preparing for the next surge of COVID-19 should not interfere with your daily life or cause you to abandon travel plans or socialize with loved ones. Indeed, readiness for unforeseen circumstances will enable you to maintain a sense of normalcy.
Winter is upon us. As Benjamin Franklin wrote, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
