The Coronavirus (COVID-19) and suppressed immune systems

According to the CDC website, “Older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease seem to be at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. Early data suggest older people are twice as likely to have serious COVID-19 illness.” There have been many studies that have shown alcoholics and addicts have adverse immune-related health effects such as a higher vulnerability to respiratory diseases. The Coronavirus is a virus that causes respiratory infections. The effects can range from cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections that can be fatal.

The spread of the Coronavirus across the U.S is looking to be more likely as the days unfold. The CDC recommends taking extra measures to put distance between yourself and other people, including staying home as much as possible and avoiding crowds. Please consider this recommendation and consult your primary health care professional if you are unsure or have questions.

What can you do?

• Start your sobriety journey. You can make yourself less vulnerable to the Coronavirus by removing drugs and alcohol from your life. Staying sober will help lower your risk. If you are starting your sobriety journey, reach out to us and we can help.
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use hand sanitizers at home and in the workplace.
• If you are sick, stay home, and follow the advice of your health care provider.
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow, not your hands or into a tissue which should immediately be discarded; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with anyone showing respiratory symptoms (breathing difficulties, cough, runny nose).
• Avoid touching public surfaces – credit card machines, gas pumps, hand railings, elevators. Use a tissue or paper towel when touching surfaces.
• Over-the-counter masks are generally not an effective deterrent.
• Evaluate your travel plans as conditions warrant; you should rethink traveling to areas that are already under a travel advisory or areas that are experiencing an outbreak of Coronavirus.

If you believe you are experiencing any of the symptoms, contact your health care professional and follow their advice.