Health Recommendations

Here are general health measures we recommend:

1. Wear a face mask if you have a cough or sneeze which might be related to infection.
2. Avoid touching any part of your body above your shoulders without washing your hands first.
3. Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after touching surfaces frequently touched by others.  If water is not available, use alcohol hand gel containing at least 60% alcohol.
4. If you must cough or sneeze, cough into your elbow.
5. Drink plenty of water, get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet (Mediterranean for most).
6. Avoid crowds.  SOCIAL DISTANCING by staying at least 3 to 6 feet from other people when possible is recommended.
7. Wipe surfaces in your environment which are often touched by others with antiseptic wipes as needed.
8. If you develop symptoms of a cold, flu, or other viral illness, stay home except for essential care. 

Most patients with viral respiratory symptoms do not need to see their primary physician or to go to an emergency room.  Some of the more important reasons to contact your primary physician or an ER by telephone for instructions include: 

• High fever (102 degrees or above)
• Productive cough (especially phlegm coming from the chest)
• Shortness of breath
• Generalized weakness