- Posted On: December 21st
How to best avoid Covid -19
Someone may have the virus for up to 15 days before they know they have it, that is, before they develop a cough, sneeze or feel fluey or unwell. This means that infected people may be doing their daily work, meeting people and in the community for some time before they are aware themselves that they are in trouble. They can therefore be quietly spreading the virus without being aware of it. Having said that however, people who are in the throes of being sick with Covid-19
The only sure way of avoiding infection is to avoid other people who have it. It therefore is very sensible to keep away from places where people gather in groups, such as matches, churches, busy shopping centres etc. Basically stay at home where possible, particularly if you are in your late seventies or eighties when your own defence mechanisms may not be as good as they once were and we know that the older you are, the more vulnerable you are to Covid-19.
* Wash your hands with soap and water every time you get home.
* Always wear a mask when in public especially indoors around shopping areas, hospitals etc.
* Hand sanitisers may be useful to have if you are out but soap and water is as good as anything.
* If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.
Should I attend my clinic appointment?
* Some routine appointments may be deferred provided you continue to feel well. If you have concerns about keeping an appointment, feel free to ring the practice and we can discuss your particular situation.
* The chances of a problem developing within five years of heart surgery are small. It would be reasonable to defer an appointment if you feel well and have seen your GP in the last six months.
* If you have had a normal Angiogram in the last five years, the chances of a new problem emerging in the absence of symptoms are small.
* If you have Atrial Fibrillation and are due an annual routine 24 hour heart monitor, that can be deferred for a further year if you feel well and have attended your GP in the last six months.
* We would encourage patients with heart failure or angina to keep their appointments. If we feel you are very stable, we may ring to defer your appointment ourselves.
Things to remember before attending your appointment?
* Please make sure to bring your medication or forward it to us before you come. Uncertainties about medication will make your visit longer while we check the drugs with your GP or pharmacist.
* Please note only scheduled patients are permitted to enter the building.
* We will take your temperature on arrival and you will have to answer and sign a small questionare.
* Face masks must be worn when attending for your appointment.
The introduction of these changes will ensure that upon your arrival you will be attended to immediately. This will minimise your stay in the Department and will limit your interaction with other patients and staff, thereby respecting social distancing as much as possible. This is the best way to keep you safe.
You can also follow https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/coronavirus.html for more details and information provided by the HSE