COVID Update

If you haven’t heard of the coronavirus, or Covid-19, by now, you’ve probably been avoiding any television and social media. Everywhere we look we are inundated with new information about how this pandemic is affecting our country and the entire world. For most, it’s creating a lot of fear and uncertainty; however, being knowledgeable of the virus and taking steps to prepare now can have you and your family ready for what is to come.

Medications for Covid-19

While there are no known medications that actually treat Covid-19, there are often secondary bacterial infections that can be treated. In many cases, it is not coronavirus that is killing people, it is pneumonia that is occurring right after it. The virus comes in, wipes out the immune system, and the body can then not tackle any bacterial infection that replaces it.

As a result, there is a need to have antibiotics on hand, if possible. Though this seems like a simple solution, most medicines are made in China and India. Both of these places have been hit hard with the virus and are in quarantine, lowering the capacity to obtain these medicines. India has even claimed that they will start saving the medication for their own citizens.

What to Have on Hand

So how can people prepare for a possible shortage of medicine and what medicine should be obtained? First, stock up on fever-reducing medication, at least enough to last two months. This includes medicine like ibuprofen, aspirin, and Tylenol. All of these will break fevers allowing the body enough energy to keep fighting infection. 

Again, if a doctor will write a prescription for an antibiotic, have that prescription filled. Be sure to get other prescribed medications like those for thyroid and anti-inflammatory issues, Crohn’s disease, asthma, and ulcerative colitis. Though most of these medications are not good to use chronically, they can be employed as a back-up or to help in an emergency situation. Find brands that do not use corn or GMO fillers. Natural alternatives to medicines like Tylenol and ibuprofen can also be found. White willow bark is a popular one that helps to reduce fevers and can be found at most health stores. 

Supplements to Take for Covid-19

While medication can be useful to obtain, consider also stocking up on supplements for the whole family. Not only can this help prepare the immune system for any impending viruses or infection, but they can also support it during illness. As most know, Vitamin C is imperative for immune support and should be taken in powder form, if possible. Every adult should get about five to ten grams per day.

Additional supplements include:

• Vitamins D and A
• Zinc and N-acetyl cysteine (a viral fighting amino acid)
• Probiotics – these provide support and help prevent bacterial infections
• Antioxidants – either through supplements or foods like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Antioxidants work to clean up free radical damage that results from the oxidation caused by viruses.
• Extra Protein – though not a supplement, it’s important to get adequate protein as it is the building block for antibodies that fight illnesses.

What About Food?

Another important way to be prepared for the Covid pandemic is to have a small stockpile of food. Try to pick things that would be eaten normally, or that will still be used even if not needed in an emergency situation. Also, look for items that will have a longer shelf life, anywhere from five to ten years. These may include:

• Canned goods 
• Dried fruits – bought or dehydrated at home
• Dried meats – like jerky, preferably not heavily processed
• Nuts and seeds – these are a great source of calories and fat
• Frozen meats and vegetables – fill up a deep freezer with frozen items as these will stay cold for several days if the power were to go out

Though these are for an emergency, don’t sacrifice health. Still strive to buy high quality, organic, and grass-fed items. Remember, when the amount and quality of food decreases, brain function, and health also decrease.

What to Avoid During Covid-19 Outbreak

Even though it may seem easier to stock up on junk food during this time, don’t do it. These heavily processed items, along with sugar and alcohol can overwhelm and even damage the immune system-putting individuals at a distinct disadvantage to fight infection. 

Those with gluten sensitivities should continue to avoid gluten and everyone should refrain from eating out. It alone is one of the easiest ways to spread communicable diseases.

Maintain the Right Focus

Since so many things seem out of control right now, it’s important to maintain the right focus. First, focus on not panicking. Though Covid-19 is a serious condition, taking these steps and being prepared can help the entire family fight this virus. 

Next, eat right, get plenty of sleep, get fresh air and sunshine, and stay active. Any movement will help circulate lymphatic fluids in the body which play a major part in how the immune system successfully operates.

The Elderly and Immunosuppressed

While all may benefit, it is imperative that the elderly and those who are immunosuppressed take heed of the following tips:

• Reduce traveling, especially by airplane, bus, or train. These methods cause one to be surrounded by other people and cause exposure to more germs.
• Frequently employ hand-washing with a liberal amount of soap and water. Soap exposes viruses and bacteria and helps to kill and disinfect. Hand sanitizer is not quite as effective.
• Along with hand-washing, don’t shake hands with others.
• Avoid public places with large crowds like movies or shopping malls. Try to get outside to walk and for fresh air.
• See if a doctor will prescribe nebulized glutathione. This is a powerful antioxidant, the strongest the body produces, and it can work to protect the lungs from developing pneumonia after the coronavirus. Nebulizing glutathione allows it to absorb better and faster.
• Remember to eat healthily and consider supplements, including N-acetyl cysteine which helps the body fight viruses.

Preparation Negates Panic

As the old adage goes, “failing to plan is planning to fail,” and with the coronavirus, it’s no different. Being prepared and creating a plan now means that you won’t have to panic down the road. And, as you take steps to care for your family, remember that you are not the only one going through this. So, be kind and considerate of others, don’t stockpile unnecessary items, and be sure to look out for those who may be more vulnerable in your community. 

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