The Carolinas are slowly reopening, but we’re still told to follow the three Ws – wear a mask, wait six feet apart when in line, and wash our hands frequently. Why, if the curve is flattening? While flattening the curve is important, it’s even more important to make it decline. Like many places, CEENTA has strict safety measures in place to help keep our patients from contracting the virus and contribute to the decline. Let’s talk about why they are necessary.Why is wearing a facial covering important? Coronavirus spreads primarily from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, which are expelled when a person with the virus coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Even people who aren’t showing symptoms can spread the disease. While a cloth mask or facial covering won’t prevent you from catching coronavirus (it’s only the N95 masks with respirators that will do so), what they will do is reduce the risk that you might spread the disease to others. It reduces the number of droplets expelled from your mouth and nose, thereby reducing the chance of someone else catching the virus. Remember, even if you don’t show symptoms, you may have the virus, and a cloth mask or facial covering could help save someone else. Why is social distancing important?The droplets carrying COVID-19 are relatively heavy, so they can’t travel more than six feet. Keeping that much space between you and others greatly reduces the risk that you or someone else could contract the virus.Why is limiting visitors important?The fewer people we have in our offices, the more space we can keep between people. While it might not be convenient to leave your children at home when you come for your appointment, it is necessary for keeping you, your family, and all our patients, doctors, and staff as safe and healthy as possible.Why is having your temperature checked important?A fever is one of the main symptoms of coronavirus and one that is very easy to check. People with a high temperature can be referred to their doctors for follow-up.Why is cleaning so important?The coronavirus is susceptible to cleaning supplies and disinfectants, so a thorough cleaning can kill the virus and remove it from most surfaces. Also, thoroughly scrubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water can kill the virus and wash it from your skin.We always want you to feel safe when you come for an eye or ENT appointment at CEENTA. By following these procedures you’ll not just protect yourself, but you’ll be protecting us and your fellow patients, too.This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. If you would like an in-person or virtual visit appointment at CEENTA, call 704-295-3000. You can also schedule an appointment online or through myCEENTAchart.
