Don’t let COVID-19 overshadow your health

With the focus on the prevention of the spread of the Corona Virus and the prioritisation of healthcare systems to meet the needs presented by the virus, it is very easy to let other health care requirements take a back seat. This could be to your disadvantage.

There have been a number of articles in the news and on social media of people who went to the hospital or other primary health care providers for other health reasons and unfortunately contracted the corona virus. We continue to hear or read reports about hospitals and clinics closing down due to staff testing positive for the virus.

This is bound to cause fear and make anyone think twice about seeking voluntary health care for new or pre-existing medical conditions.  Fear of contracting the virus may overshadow the reality of the repercussions of neglecting health care conditions.

It has been reported that there is an increase in expectant mothers avoiding antenatal check-ups, children going without immunisations and a large number of patients with chronic conditions not attending the necessary medical consultations. All of this being motivated by a need to “err on the side of caution.”

Is it really cautious though? No! In the name of avoiding possible exposure to the virus, one may worsen any other existing medical conditions and this may even result in mortality. While it is important to protect ourselves as much as possible, there are however other avenues that we can explore to ensure that our quest to avoid exposure does not expose us to even greater longer-lasting risks.

A number of medical providers are making provision for virtual medical consultations. Others have made provision for the extension/access to chronic medication, without the need for physical consultations. Contact your health care provider or medical practitioner to know what alternatives are available to you.

If, however, you do need to go to your doctor’s rooms, clinic or hospital, please do not forget to wear a mask whenever you are out in public, implement social distancing, wash and/or sanitize your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Remember, your health is your most valuable asset, there will be life after COVID-19 and the lockdown, and we all need to take the necessary steps to look after all aspects of our health to ensure that we are able to enjoy a long and healthy life, to the fullest extent possible.

– The first wealth is Health – Ralf Waldo Emerson.