As Anguilla continues to have no new cases of Covid-19, the World Health Organization reported a record number of new confirmed cases across the globe, with more than 250,000 cases reported daily and the number of global deaths approaching 600,000. There is no doubt that we here in Anguilla must continue to be vigilant and continue to take measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 virus.
Preventing the spread of Covid-19
As Anguilla continues to welcome returning citizens and residents from abroad there is a possibility that we will get new cases of Covid-19 at some time in the future. Therefore, all of us must continue to practise measures to prevent the spread of the virus. All of us should follow the guidelines from the Ministry of Health here in Anguilla. All residents on the island are encouraged to do the following:
• Wash your hands often. Use soap and water. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Maintain a safe distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
• Disinfect frequently-used surfaces often.
• Wear a mask when physical distancing is not possible.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Stay home if you feel unwell.
• If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
If you are symptomatic, call your healthcare provider in advance. Calling in advance allows your healthcare provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This protects you, and prevents the spread of viruses and other infections.
• Avoid close contact. Many of us in Anguilla are still not doing this. The following are recommended:
Inside your home: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
Outside your home: Put 6 feet of distance between yourself and people who do not live in your household.
Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people.
Keeping your distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
Though we do not have a lockdown in Anguilla, we still need to maintain social distancing in the short- to medium-term to control the spread of coronavirus.
How the COVID-19 pandemic will change the way we live?
There will be many lifestyle changes following this coronavirus pandemic, what lingers most after a pandemic, is unpredictable. Many of the social and behavioural changes are difficult to predict.
There is some evidence that more people are washing their hands more frequently than before and many are refusing to shake hands and avoid hugging individuals. Until this coronavirus pandemic is over, no shaking of hands and no hugs should be adopted by all. We must adopt other forms of saluting and greeting individuals.
I believe that the wide spread use of social media and other forms of technology will persist. We are more likely to see more video chats instead of conference-room huddles. Zoom conferencing will likely continue for a while.
In the wake of COVID-19, certain habits we have adapted will likely stick around for a long time. Our vigilance around things like disinfecting surfaces will probably continue long after the pandemic is over.
Increase emphasis on public health issues is expected, but this is not a certainty. For many years our doctors and public health nurses have not received the recognition and support from the public and opinion leaders on this island. The outstanding job our health care professionals do regarding our vaccination programmes and other preventable programmes on the island is scarcely mentioned or discussed by our radio pundits. Emphasis on preventable health programmes must be encouraged following this pandemic.
Improved mental health services should follow this pandemic. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic may be stressful for people in Anguilla, including healthcare professionals. Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. We must encourage individuals to find ways to cope with stress in a healthy way that will make individuals, and the community as a whole stronger.
Following this pandemic we expect more governments including our own to put more focus on healthcare. It is tragic how the pandemic highlighted the shortcomings of healthcare systems worldwide including such countries like the United States of America. The overburdened hospitals in many countries need an upgrade on every level from their infrastructures to their processes. These will be needed to ensure a safe environment for the personnel and patients, as well to better cope with any emergency situations. Our health system in Anguilla must be prepared for future pandemics.
Conclusion
No country in the world has been spared the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and Anguilla like many other countries will have to adopt various changes in the midst of this pandemic. The social and economic effects of the pandemic have force many of us to change many of our lifestyles. As the pandemic continues to affect the globe we must continue our efforts to keep Anguilla Covid-19 free. Preventative measures such as frequent washing of hands, good coughing etiquette and social distancing must continue. All of us must continue to follow the guidelines by our local Ministry of Health.
Ask Your Dr is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor with over thirty-eight years in clinical practice. Dr Brett Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 497 5828).
