Coronavirus: Prevention and Protection From Covid-19 in Addiction Recovery

Anaheim, California – The Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak has infected thousands of people around the globe, affecting more than 90 countries. This has prompted the World Health Organization to declare the new illness as a global emergency and many heads of state are warning their citizens to prepare for a possible pandemic. The virus has reached the United States, with confirmed cases in California and Orange County.

In line with this development, the Lighthouse Treatment Center, a drug and alcohol recovery facility in Anaheim, California, has published an article on its website to bring awareness on why people in addiction recovery should be vigilant when it comes to protecting themselves against the Covid-19 coronavirus. This is relevant in the recovery community because based on available data, the new coronavirus is particularly threatening to people with weakened immune systems and pre-existing conditions.

In an interview with Contagion Live, Dr. Christina Tan, state epidemiologist, assistant commissioner, New Jersey Department of Health, said that, “All individuals with weakened immune systems might be at higher risk for complications associated with the virus that causes COVID illness.”

People who are abusing or have abused drugs and alcohol in the past could be more susceptible to the new coronavirus because of their damaged immune systems. Drugs and alcohol have been shown to weaken the body’s immune system, therefore lowering its ability to naturally fight off viruses and infections.

There are several ways to prepare, prevent, and protect one’s self against Covid-19 coronavirus.

The novel coronavirus is believed to have originated in Wuhan, China and it spreads from person to person via a cough or sneeze droplets. It is also possible to get the virus by touching an inanimate object that has been infected with the virus, such as door handles, seats on public transportation, and other public utilities.

Patients who are infected suffer fever, cough, and shortness of breath. The symptoms are similar to the flu and common cold so it is difficult to detect without testing. The Covid-19 coronavirus is also said to cause pneumonia and organ failure in extreme cases. If someone is infected with the virus, it may take a few days before symptoms are experienced so it is possible to spread the virus unknowingly.

People can protect themselves from acquiring the virus by following preventive measures and taking care of their health. Here are some suggestions:

Eat well and exercise

Many health experts said that recovery from the novel coronavirus highly depends on how strong the immune system of the patient is. This means that it is very important to strengthen the body. Eat nutritious meals with a lot of vegetables and fruits. Vitamin C can be taken and other multivitamins. It is also recommended to avoid unhealthy food like sugar, alcohol, and junk food that provide empty calories.

While this may not be the time to go to the gym or attend group exercise classes, it is still important to stay fit and active. Simple exercises that can be done at home can be found online and YouTube.

Get adequate sleep

Many people underestimate the power of good-quality sleep. Sleep has been shown to help the immune system. When a person doesn't get enough sleep, infection-fighting cells and antibodies are reduced. Sleeping 7 to 9 hours a day and taking naps are recommended.

Frequent hand washing

Washing hands with soap and water is important to kill off the virus that a person may have picked up. This is particularly important if someone has been to a public place, before eating, and once a person reaches home. Hand washing should be done for about 20 seconds without forgetting to cleanse the inside of the fingers, the top of the hands, and the wrists.

An alcohol-based sanitizer can also be used if hand washing is not possible. If people do not have a sanitizer and they are in a public place, touching the face should be avoided so as to not transfer the virus from contaminated surfaces to the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Avoid crowded places

As much as possible, people should avoid going to crowded places or in enclosed venues where they could be in close contact with many people, including tourist areas, markets, cinemas, clubs, concerts, etc. It is also important to distance oneself from people who are sick. It is also recommended to avoid shaking hands, kissing cheeks, or touching public items if not necessary. It is also wise to delay unnecessary travel for now.

Seek early medical help

If a person is experiencing flu-like symptoms, seeking early medical help by getting tested is recommended. If a person is already sick, he/she should avoid going out to protect other people from getting the virus. Doing a self-quarantine is also recommended for people who have recently traveled or have been in contact with people who traveled to China, South Korea, or Italy.

Consider online AA meetings or support groups

If there is a Covid-19 case in a certain area, it is better to stay at home and work from home if possible. If people in recovery need to attend a support group meeting or visit their counselor, consider doing an online alternative for the time being.