As locally and nationally we hear more about cases of COVID-19 (and a plethora of other respiratory viruses including RSV and the flu) rising, it felt like a good time to share an update on COVID on behalf of GBMC.
Although we all tend to get a little worried when we hear about increased cases of COVID-19, it is important to note that we are in a different scenario than when this was a brand-new virus. Back in 2020, none of us had immunity to COVID-19 since it was novel. Now, years later, most of us have built some level of immunity to it through either having gotten the virus or through being vaccinated against it, or both. That means that if we do get infected with COVID-19, our immune system will get in action and we will probably experience it as we do other respiratory tract infections, with relatively minor symptoms and a full recovery. Those with certain risk factors may still experience more severe symptoms if they get COVID (or other viruses, for that matter).
With that said, it is never a bad idea to wear a mask to help prevent the spread of the numerous respiratory viruses currently circulating in the community. This is a simple measure anyone can take to protect themselves and to help protect those who are more susceptible to complications from respiratory illness. And of course, the importance of vaccination is paramount. I encourage all people get their flu shots, COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters as recommended, and RSV vaccines as appropriate. If you haven’t yet received your vaccinations, I encourage you to talk to your primary care physician. These vaccines are available at each of our GBMC Health Partners primary care practices.
GBMC is carefully monitoring the situation, paying special attention to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Maryland Department of Health, to make decisions about any necessary protective measures – such as masking in certain situations – that need to be taken. Currently, we have not re-instituted universal masking, but we are recommending that staff wear a mask to prevent the spread of respiratory illness when caring for a patient and when in patient-facing settings. We will keep everyone updated if our recommendations or requirements change.
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