Coronavirus (also referred to as COVID-19) can present as a “pink” eye. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that 1% of coronavirus patients have conjunctivitis.
It can also be spread through the contact with the eye. That is why protective goggles and/or face shields should be worn by health practitioners treating the virus, and why people are instructed not to touch their eyes (in addition to their noses and mouths).
Older adults and people who have underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness.
For Our Patients at Atlantic Medical Eye Care of NJ
As for our office, we are asking that any patients with a cough, fever or cold symptoms reschedule their appointment. The same is true if you have traveled outside the country in recent weeks.
Social distancing
In addition, we have instituted a policy of only 1 person accompanying the patient. We are requesting that this individual wait in their vehicle or outside the office during the visit.
Expedient service
We are trying to eliminate any wait in our office and, as such, we are cutting back on the number of patients seen each day. Our goal is to bring the patient into the exam room as quickly as possible with as little wait-time as necessary.
Therefore, we are rescheduling routine exams and non-emergent visits during this crisis.
Meticulous cleaning
Staff are vigorously cleaning each exam room and the waiting room after each patient. All magazines and reading materials have been removed from the waiting room.
What You Can Do to Help Defeat COVID-19
We’re urging patients and everyone else to follow all CDC guidelines to reduce the spread of COVID-19 as this crisis continues to unfold:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when hand-washing is not possible).
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Put distance between yourself and other people (aim for 6 feet apart when possible).
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Wear a facemask if you are sick (wear a scarf if a facemask is unavailable).
- Clean and DISINFECT frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
Stay Positive
Life got tougher for all of us worldwide. We are all in this fight together. And by following the CDC guidelines listed above, we can all play a pivotal role in helping to prevent this disease from spreading and overwhelming our healthcare system.
In time, we will beat this thing. Do what you can to help, and try to stay positive. In times of crisis, humanity has always shown its best. It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we all work together.
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