Addressing Common Questions About Covid-19

Introduction

In recent weeks, we have received numerous inquiries regarding Covid-19, commonly referred to as “coronavirus.” As we prioritize the safety of our clients, particularly those in vulnerable categories, we continuously assess the situation and will make necessary adjustments to our practices if any risks are identified.

What is Coronavirus?

Covid-19 is the infectious disease caused by the newly identified coronavirus. This virus and associated disease were unknown prior to the outbreak that began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

Am I in the Coronavirus Vulnerable Group if I Have Heart Disease?

Individuals with heart disease face a higher risk of complications if they contract the coronavirus. However, they share the same risk of contracting the virus as the general population.

How Do I Prevent Coronavirus?

The most effective defense against the virus is proper handwashing, either with soap and water or with a hand sanitizer if hands are visibly clean. Many individuals struggle to understand why a thorough handwashing should take 20 seconds. The various crevices in our hands provide ample opportunities for droplets to linger. For an effective demonstration, refer to the HSE website.

Many have found the handwashing demonstration on the Late Late Show enlightening, emphasizing the necessity of duration and thoroughness. Vigilance is crucial; we must all work together to minimize the virus’s spread, which includes addressing poor hygiene habits among peers.

Maintaining a safe distance is also essential, with a recommendation of at least two meters. When coughing, it is advisable to use your elbow instead of your hands, as the virus can be transferred through hand contact. The coronavirus primarily spreads through the eyes, nose, and mouth, and you are less likely to touch your face with a contaminated elbow than with your hands.

Additionally, ensure that all work surfaces are kept clean. It is important to remember that the coronavirus incubation period can last up to 14 days.

What Can You Do When Confined Indoors?

Maintain good ventilation in your home and stay active. Each day spent sedentary can result in a loss of approximately 15% of muscle mass. Being housebound can significantly diminish your exercise capacity, making it vital to follow a regular strength training program during these uncertain times.

How to Exercise During Self-Isolation or If You Are Housebound

Keeping active at home is crucial. The recommended exercise regimen for heart health includes performing each exercise 15 times, three times a day. For guidance, you can refer to this exercise video: [Exercise Video](https://h2hcardiacphysio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/H2H_3X_EXERCISES_V11_1.mp4).

Aim to achieve a minimum of 5000 steps daily, as many individuals find themselves completing only about 1000 steps on housebound days. You can utilize activity monitors on smartphones to track your progress. Exercising outdoors is generally safe, but if you are with others, maintain a social distance of at least one meter, ideally two.

Simple Exercise Tips During Coronavirus

– Use the bathroom on a different floor to increase your step count.
– Utilize stairs as a form of exercise, similar to a gym stepper.
– Engage with exercise videos; we are exploring the option of delivering online classes during closures.

Most importantly, remember that approximately 80% of individuals who contract the coronavirus experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover.

What to Do if You Develop Symptoms

If you exhibit symptoms of the coronavirus, please contact your GP by phone. Common symptoms include:
– Runny nose
– Sore throat
– Fever
– Cough
– Difficulty breathing

For accurate information, refer to the HSE website at www.hse.ie. Our team at Heart 2 Heart is committed to your safety and well-being. Please adhere to public health guidelines and keep your hands clean. For questions or to book courses, please reach out using our contact information.

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