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In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, Gary Hamilton, CEO of patient engagement technology firm InteliChart, sheds light on the transformative role of telehealth in disease prevention, preventative care, and value-based health models. In a recent interview, Hamilton outlines three pivotal aspects of telehealth that warrant closer attention.

1. Telehealth as a Catalyst for Disease Prevention:
   Telehealth emerges as a powerful tool to extend the reach of healthcare providers, serving as a frontline defense against chronic conditions. By broadening access to healthcare services, telehealth becomes a crucial instrument in the prevention of diseases. Hamilton emphasizes its potential impact on managing chronic conditions by reaching populations previously hindered by obstacles like cost, transportation challenges, and time constraints.

The technology not only addresses these access barriers but also holds promise in increasing accessibility for rural patients and those grappling with social determinants of health. Through virtual consultations, patients can conveniently engage with healthcare providers, potentially reducing the frequency of costly emergency department visits.

2. Enhanced Patient Engagement for Effective Preventative Care:
   Hamilton underscores the role of telehealth, coupled with advanced patient engagement technology, in crafting successful preventative care programs. Access to care is identified as a cornerstone for managing chronic conditions effectively. Telehealth’s ability to offer a cost-effective and convenient alternative to traditional in-person visits becomes instrumental, particularly for patients in the early stages of chronic conditions.

By automating patient engagement and tracking digitally, providers can identify opportunities for intervention, allowing more focused in-office visits for those requiring additional human interaction. This approach fosters innovation in managing patient populations and enhances overall preventative care strategies.

3. Telehealth’s Contribution to Value-Based Care Models:
   The interview delves into how telehealth aligns with value-based care reimbursement models. Hamilton points to opportunities for group settings, such as collective management and group discussions led by healthcare providers. Notably, he highlights examples like group counseling for nutrition and diabetes management as avenues where telehealth can thrive.

Drawing a parallel with consumer behavior in other industries, Hamilton emphasizes the importance of convenience in healthcare. He suggests that, akin to popular food delivery services, if healthcare services are not convenient for patients, historical issues of access and engagement may persist. By managing patients through telehealth at their convenience, providers can significantly impact the escalation of chronic conditions and keep them in check.

In conclusion, the article underscores the transformative potential of telehealth in revolutionizing healthcare delivery. From disease prevention to enhanced patient engagement and alignment with value-based care, telehealth emerges as a multifaceted solution poised to reshape the healthcare landscape for the better.

A recent KLAS report sheds light on the positive impact of virtual nursing and sitting solutions in alleviating staffing shortages within healthcare organizations. The inaugural KLAS Virtual Sitting & Nursing 2023 report delves into customer experiences and outcomes, showcasing the satisfaction of healthcare professionals with these innovative platforms.

Key Insights from the Report:

Virtual Sitting and Nursing Platforms Overview:

Virtual sitting software enables healthcare organizations to observe patients and prevent adverse events.
Virtual nursing software empowers remote nurses to perform tasks like discharge planning and documentation, supporting bedside nurses.
Both solutions involve the use of in-room video and audio hardware.
Customer Satisfaction and Long-Term Plans:

Of the 43 healthcare professionals surveyed, 98% consider their current virtual nursing and sitting solutions as integral to their long-term plans.
Respondents highlighted the positive impact of these solutions on staffing shortages, with 59% stating a very positive impact and 28% indicating a moderately positive impact.
Observation Capacity Enhancement:

Organizations have increased observation capacity, transitioning from a 1:1 sitter-to-patient ratio to one sitter observing several patients.
This shift has freed up skilled clinical staff previously assigned to sitting roles, allowing them to contribute their expertise more meaningfully elsewhere.
Performance of Specific Solutions:

AvaSure earned an impressive overall performance score of 89.7 on a 100-point scale, with customers praising its ability to drive tangible outcomes, such as reducing patient falls and tube/line interferences.
Collette Health (formerly MedSitter) received a commendable score of 89.4, showcasing its effectiveness in virtual sitting.
Challenges and Considerations:

Concerns about cost were raised, with some AvaSure customers feeling “nickel-and-dimed” for cameras and necessary equipment.
Customers emphasized the importance of manageable ongoing costs related to equipment longevity, replacement, and scaling.
Vendor-Specific Feedback:

AvaSure customers appreciated the solution’s cost-effective approach, though some expressed concerns about additional charges.
Collette Health customers praised the platform for reducing patient falls and mitigating staffing shortages, but some desired enhanced reporting and analytics capabilities.
Growing Interest in Virtual Nursing:

Survey results aligned with the report’s findings, indicating that 75% of healthcare professionals see virtual nursing as a recruitment opportunity.
Despite this interest, 14% of respondents cited a lack of confidence in return on investment as a barrier to implementing virtual nursing solutions.
In conclusion, the KLAS report underscores the positive reception and tangible benefits of virtual nursing and sitting platforms, offering a glimpse into their potential to address staffing challenges in the healthcare sector.

Telehealth emerges as a promising avenue for enhancing access and long-term retention in the treatment of opioid use disorder, as indicated by a recent study analyzing Medicaid data from Kentucky and Ohio in 2019-2020. Published in JAMA Network Open, the study emphasizes that commencing buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder through telehealth is linked with a greater likelihood of extended treatment compared to non-telehealth settings, contributing to a growing body of evidence supporting the positive impact of telemedicine in opioid use disorder treatment.

In Kentucky, individuals initiating buprenorphine treatment via telehealth displayed a 48% retention rate in treatment for a continuous 90 days, surpassing the 44% rate among those starting treatment in non-telehealth settings. Similarly, in Ohio, the 90-day retention rate was 32% for telehealth-initiated treatment, compared to 28% for non-telehealth treatment.

This research was part of the HEALing Communities Study, supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) in collaboration with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) through the National Institutes of Health’s Helping to End Addiction Long-term Initiative (NIH HEAL Initiative).

The study’s findings underscore the potential of telehealth to enhance access and continuity of treatment, affirming its safety and benefits for those seeking addiction care. Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of NIDA, stresses the imperative of extending this accessible mode of care to address the unprecedented challenges posed by the overdose crisis.

Until 2020, individuals with opioid use disorder were mandated to have in-person meetings with healthcare providers to initiate buprenorphine treatment. However, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government introduced prescribing flexibilities that allowed remote prescription of buprenorphine via telehealth without in-person assessments. This change expanded payment for telehealth services and diversified the communication technologies permissible for clinical care in substance use disorder cases via telehealth.

To assess the impact of these policy changes, researchers from the University of Kentucky analyzed Medicaid data from November 2019 to December 2020. Nearly 92,000 individuals had a buprenorphine prescription in 2020, and around 43,000 began treatment that year. The study highlighted substantial increases in telemedicine provision of buprenorphine following the pandemic-induced telehealth flexibilities.

Examining a subset of individuals who started treatment in the latter part of 2020, the study revealed a higher likelihood of continuing treatment for 90 continuous days for those commencing buprenorphine treatment via telehealth in both Kentucky and Ohio.

Furthermore, the study showed no increased likelihood of nonfatal overdose associated with receiving buprenorphine treatment via telehealth, indicating that increased access to telemedicine for this treatment did not harm patients.

Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, the HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, highlighted telehealth as a pivotal tool for expanding access to life-saving medication, stressing the critical role it plays in reducing overdose deaths and aiding recovery.

However, the study noted disparities in treatment access and retention among certain groups, such as non-Hispanic Black individuals, men, and those with a history of prior opioid-related overdoses, who were less likely to receive or continue treatment through telehealth over the 90-day period.

The authors emphasized the necessity for further research beyond the Medicaid populations of Kentucky and Ohio and beyond the year 2020 to better understand the broader impact of telehealth on patient outcomes. Dr. Lindsey Hammerslag, the lead author and assistant professor at the University of Kentucky, highlighted the need to address barriers hindering equitable access to telehealth treatment, emphasizing the importance of these findings in shaping future policies and interventions.

Consultant Connect’s is a telemedicine provider from the UK whose technology facilitates swift connections between GPs and dermatology specialists, revolutionizing the way NHS boards across the UK grant GPs access to rapid advice from consultant dermatologists.

Utilizing teledermatology technology, GPs can capture, store, and forward photos and files directly to specialist NHS dermatology experts for preliminary advice and guidance before referrals.

The PhotoSAF technology by Consultant Connect stands as the most extensively used teledermatology platform in the UK, servicing over half of the NHS in England, Scotland, and Wales. This innovative service is employed by 3,500 NHS organizations, including GP practices and Trusts.

By using the PhotoSAF app, GPs and healthcare professionals capture images of patients’ skin, sharing these directly with dermatology specialists. These experts can swiftly identify issues and provide guidance on the best steps forward for the patients.

On average, more than two-thirds of patient cases have avoided unnecessary secondary care appointments, benefiting approximately 550,000 patient cases. This system collaborates with various dermatology services, including adult and children’s dermatology and the “two-week wait” skin cancer pathway. Images can be instantly shared within the app if Photo Advice and Guidance (A&G) is enabled, or via local referral systems or directly to a secondary care pathway.

Since its launch in 2017, over 2 million dermatology photos have been captured using the PhotoSAF app. Usage of this technology has surged by 2,400% in 2023 compared to 2019.

The platform seamlessly integrates into primary care patient records in England, managing activities, photos, and messages, and integrates with the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS). This integration streamlines the referral process for GPs, saving valuable clinical and administrative time and ensuring accurate documentation of patients’ conditions. This process results in a cost saving of approximately £16 million for the NHS.

The impact of PhotoSAF teledermatology is substantial, benefitting patients, clinicians, and the NHS by providing rapid treatment without the necessity of a hospital visit. Jonathan Patrick, CEO of Consultant Connect, emphasizes the NHS’s pioneering use of technology to enhance care for taxpayers.

Dr. Emamoke Ubogu, a GP and partner at Swan Medical Centre, highlighted the significance of receiving advice from dermatology experts. GPs’ training in dermatology is limited, making communication with dermatologists vital. Often, specialists only require photos and medical history to make accurate diagnoses, making this technology exceptionally helpful for GPs.

Introduction

April 25 is the World Malaria Day. Malaria is a fatal disease caused by parasites that are spread by the mosquito species that feeds on humans.

Malaria and its Transmission

Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that in 2020, 241 million clinical cases of malaria occurred, and 627,000 people died of malaria, most of them children in Africa. Because malaria causes so much illness and death, the disease is a great drain on many national economies.

Malaria is not spread from person to person like a cold or the flu. It cannot be sexually transmitted. You cannot get malaria from casual contact with malaria-infected people, such as sitting next to someone who has malaria. However, an infected mother can transmit malaria to her infant before or during delivery.

The four main kinds of malaria parasites that infect humans are Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium falciparum. Among these types, the P. falciparum is the one that causes the most severe infections and, if not treated promptly, can result in death. There is also Plasmodium knowlesi, which normally infects macaques in Southeast Asia. This P. knowlesi can also infect people, resulting in “zoonotic” malaria (malaria passed from animal to human). While malaria is spread by mosquito bites, only the female Anopheles mosquitoes can spread the disease. Furthermore, they must have been infected with a blood meal from an infected human previously. The symptoms of malaria include fever and flu-like illness. These include shaking chills, headache, muscle aches, and tiredness. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. Malaria may cause anemia and jaundice (yellow coloring of the skin and eyes) because of the loss of red blood cells. If not promptly treated, the infection can become severe and may cause kidney failure, seizures, mental confusion, coma, and death.


Yes, malaria is a disease that can be fatal. However, the illness and death caused by it are usually preventable.

Prevention of Malaria

A vaccine is now available for preventing malaria. It has approval for children who live in moderate-to-high risk areas in Sub-Saharan Africa, where infection with P. falconium is common. However, it is not for use by travelers. So far, health experts have administered over 2.3 million doses, and it has a good safety profile. While the vaccine will save lives, it is not 100% effective. Currently, in children under the age of 5 years, the malaria vaccine can reduce the risk of an episode by 40%. The other methods of fighting malaria include drugs, insecticides, and insecticide-treated bed nets. Attempts at producing an effective malaria vaccine and anti-malarial medication are on-going.
You and your family can most effectively prevent malaria by taking all three of these important measures: (1) keeping mosquitoes from biting you, especially at night; (2) sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets, using insect repellent, and wearing long-sleeved clothing if out of doors at night; and (3) taking preventive vaccine or anti-malarial medication.

Conclusion

Malaria is a life-threatening disease that can occur if a person has a mosquito bite that carries certain types of Plasmodium parasites. The symptoms include a fever and chills, which may disappear after a few days but can reappear several weeks or months later. If you developed symptoms up to a year after traveling in an affected area, you can consult with MyPocketDoctor. The MyPocketDoctor has been actively delivering telemedicine services. You can certainly enjoy these conveniences right at your fingertips by downloading the MyPocketDoctor APP and talking to our team of doctors about your health concerns. MyPocketDoctor can be contacted through its Facebook page and/or agent chat on the website www.MyPocketDoctor.com. You may check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) through this website.

Reference:

https://www.cdc.gov/malaria
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150670#summary

According to the World Health Organization, the latest information about Omicron is that it is more active and transmissible. Furthermore, it can also resist most of the vaccines. 

The Omicron Variant

In November this year, experts detected the first specimen tested positive for Omicron in South Africa. The emergence of this new variant threatened public health officials and scientists. As mentioned, Omicron is more transmissible as it contains dominant mutations.

Compared to the first variant of COVID-19, the Omicron are more transmissible. This means that it can infect one person at a very fast rate. According to the experts, anyone with Omicron can transfer the virus to either partially- to fully-vaccinated individuals. However, the same symptoms, like flu and difficulty in breathing, are found in patients infected with the Omicron variant. Thus, the government warned the public to wear their face masks when going outdoors properly.

With that in mind, the risks associated with this variant are very high. Thus, the government worldwide tightened its security to prevent the possible transmission of Omicron. This variant is now present in almost 60 countries worldwide. Early December, one Californian was found as the first American who tested positive for the Omicron variant.  In the Philippines, the risk of the infection with Omicron variant pushed the increase of many cities into Alert Level 3.

Previous infections do not provide immunity against Omicron. For example, most people in South Africa tested positive for different SARS-CoV-2 variants. Despite that, South Africa remained to have the highest number of Omicron-infected individuals. In other words, immunity from previous infections does not stop omicron. This could be the reason why the number of Omicron cases is doubling very fast. In addition, current vaccines are not enough to defeat the Omicron variant. Thus, scientists are currently developing new vaccines to dominate this new variant.

How to Get Protection from Omicron

Many believe that the Omicron variant is more infectious than the previous ones. But we have tools to fight and prevent getting the Omicron virus. One of these is through vaccinations. Vaccination does not guarantee full protection against the virus. However, inoculation is our safety tool to make ourselves less susceptible to virus transmission. The good thing about getting vaccinated is that it prevents death, hospitalization, and severe illness associated with the COVID-19 virus. Scientists recommend 17 years old and below to get full vaccination. On the other hand, 18 years old and older should get booster shots to maintain their protection.

Wearing a mask is also an ideal way to protect ourselves against the virus. Experts recommend people wear masks when going outdoors. Although not very effective, social distancing can also prevent us from spreading the particles. Depending on the situation, you will need to wear either cloth, KN95, or any other type of facemasks.

Undergoing antigen tests is also helpful to monitor your health condition. It will help you to determine whether you carry the virus. If you found that you are positive with the variant, we recommend you to do self-isolation. After that, inform the health professionals in your area to receive immediate treatment.

Conclusion

The number of individuals who tested positive for the Omicron variant continue to increase. This poses a huge threat to scientists, health professionals, and the public. The good news is that we have the tools to keep ourselves protected against the virus. We can do this by using the tools of vaccination, wearing a mask and following safety protocols. If you suspect that you or your loved is infected with the Omicron variant, you can have a telemedicine consultation with MyPocketDoctor. The MyPocketDoctor website and mobile app (Android and IOS) have Multi-factor security to guard your medical information better. This telemedicine service, other than providing you with online medical consultation, has also been actively providing you with valuable health information to guide you during these unique times. You can certainly enjoy these conveniences right at your fingertips by downloading the MyPocketDoctor app and talking to our team of doctors about your health concerns. The MyPocketDoctor can also be contacted through its Facebook page and/or agent chat on the website www.MyPocketDoctor.com. You may check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) through this website.

Introduction

Yes, COVID-19 Booster is necessary. Boosters can protect individuals from severe diseases and death caused by COVID-19. Getting the COVID-19 boosters helps optimize our antibody levels, the T-cells and the memory B cells. Thus, optimizing the body’s immune protection of the highest risk populations such as the seniors and those with comorbidities. These components play an important role in building immune responses against viruses.

The COVID-19 booster shots that are being endorsed are Pfizer, the Johnson & Johnson and Moderna vaccines. The Pfizer and the Johnson & Johnson booster doses are exactly the same as the primary doses. It is recommended that those vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson must get a booster shot two months after receiving the first shot. Meanwhile, the Moderna comes as a half booster, consisting of 50 micrograms, that is administered for a primary series dose of Johnson & Johnson. The immunocompromised individuals are recommended to get a full dose (100 micrograms) of the Moderna shot as a booster. Pfizer booster can be taken at least two months after receiving their Johnson & Johnson primary vaccination.

The Heterologous Method

Did you know that the updated vaccine effectiveness of Johnson & Johnson against hospitalization is only 71 percent? In comparison, the Moderna vaccine has (93 percent) and the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine (88 percent). The World Health Organization (WHO) had advised that priorities must be given to those immune-compromised individuals who have waning immunity from COVID-19. Study shows that those who die of the COVID-19 are actually unvaccinated. The purpose of the mix-and-match approach offer the flexibility to choose additional COVID-19 protection that is different from their primary series. “Heterologous” is the clinical term for mixing and matching vaccines. The heterologous method also offers great flexibility to some vaccine providers, pharmacies and local health departments. This empowers people to choose based on their preferences and medical circumstances.

It is recommended that even though the person can choose a COVID-19 booster shot that is different from their original shot, he or she must stick with the first vaccine brand if it is available. On the contrary, some experts say that if everybody needs to match the exact brand, and every provider had to carry all three brands of the vaccine, it would delay the process and booster rollouts. This will jeopardize the Filipinos who have less access to care to begin with.

COVID-19 Boosters for Filipinos

In the Philippines, the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) made a recommendation to the Department of Health to give booster shots and third doses against COVID-19 for priority groups. The first groups include healthcare worker, seniors and “eligible priority groups”. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has approved this HTAC recommendation on 24 October 2021. This approval comes with the condition that there is sufficient vaccine supply and inoculation targets are reached. At present, there are still approximately 29.34 million Filipinos who are waiting in line for the second vaccination.

The COVID-19 boosters still need emergency use authorization (EUA). Filipinos should expect that the side effects of the booster shots are similar to those from the primary series of Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer and Moderna. The most common symptoms from the booster shots are fatigue and pain at the injection site. Most booster side-effects are mild to moderate.

Conclusion

COVID-19 boosters are expected to roll out before this year ends or during the first quarter of 2022 at the very least. The necessity of getting the COVID-19 boosters supports the readiness of every person to get used to living with COVID-19 virus. Prevention is better than cure, after all. Maintaining the good health and practicing good hygiene must still be practiced, whether the person can get the booster immediately or not. If all else fail, remember that supportive doctors are within your reach through the MyPocketDoctor App. The MyPocketDoctor website and mobile app (Android and IOS) have Multi-factor security to guard your medical information better. This telemedicine service, other than providing you with online medical consultation, has also been actively providing you with valuable health information to guide you during these unique times. You can easily obtain these conveniences right at your fingertips by downloading the MyPocketDoctor app and talking to our team of doctors about your health concerns. The MyPocketDoctor can also be contacted through its Facebook page and/or agent chat on the website www.MyPocketDoctor.com. You may check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) through this website.

References:

www.who.int

www.pna.gov.ph

www.cdc.gov

www.npr.org

Introduction

In every problem, there is a solution. The wonderful news is that there are three anti-inflammatory drugs to help in solving the COVID-19 crisis. There is a novel trial conducted by an extraordinary multinational partnership to find life-saving COVID-19 treatments. It is called the Solidarity PLUS.

The Solidarity PLUS

The World Health Organization is conducting a Solidarity trial in partnership with 52 nations and researchers from over 600 hospitals. The Solidarity PLUS study is the next phase of the Solidarity trial. Three anti-inflammatory medicines will be evaluated for their ability to cure the COVID-19 infection. These are infliximab, imatinib and artesunate. If any or all of these medications are shown to be successful in treating COVID-19 infection, the manufacturers have also pledged to make the drugs available to the public at a minimal cost.

Infliximab

Infliximab is used to treat autoimmune disorders. In the experiment, it will be administered intravenously in a single dose. Johnson & Johnson is the primary manufacturer of this drug. Some of the diseases in which it has proven its effectivity are ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Infliximab works by targeting a protein called, “tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)”, which is naturally found in the body. The TNF-alpha aids the immune system in fighting infections. However, too much TNF-alpha might harm the cells that line the intestine. This is why the infliximab serves as a medication to prevent the excessive TNF-alpha production. With its demonstrated success in treating certain autoimmune inflammatory diseases, Infliximab is expected to have beneficial safety and effectiveness in reducing broad-spectrum inflammation. This can be particularly helpful for senior citizens who are most clinically susceptible to COVID-19.

Imanitib

Imatinib is the second medication under consideration by the WHO as a possible treatment for severe instances of COVID-19. For this experiment, the medicine will be administered orally once a day for 14 days. The primary manufacturer of this medication is Novartis. Imatinib belongs to a class of drugs known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which prevents the aberrant protein activity that causes cancer cells proliferation. This is why Imatinib is often used to treat specific malignancies. This medication is used to treat leukemia, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, hypereosinophilic syndrome and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans. This is used for Solidarity PLUS because the inflammatory mechanisms in cancer and COVID-19 disease have similarities. By utilizing this antineoplastic drug, the reallocation of some anticancer and anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals for COVID-19 can lower the fatality rates.

Artesunate

Artesunate is an intravenous injectable to treat severe instances of malaria in adults and pediatric patients. It is a derivative of the Artemisinin. For more than three decades, Artemisinin and its derivatives are proven safe and effective in the treatment of malaria. The WHO proposed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of artesunate because of its antimalarial characteristics. Both artemisin and artesunate belong to the same pharmacological class. Artesunate is converted to DHA, which produces free radicals that prevent Plasmodium parasites from performing their regular functions. This drug has a brief duration of action and a moderate duration of therapy due to its short half-life. In the experiment, it will be administered intravenously for seven days. This is the standard dose for treating severe malaria. The major producer of Artesunate is Ipca. 

Conclusion

There is a serious threat posed by Delta and Lambda variants. These rapid mutations of the coronavirus motivated every country to contribute their expertise for the global search of COVID-19 treatment. These studies are also expected to aid in future pandemics, allowing every country to be prepared and lowering fatality rates. For now, if you have any concern regarding the COVID-19 disease, you may contact MyPocketDoctor. The MyPocketDoctor website and mobile app (Android and IOS) now have Multi-factor security to guard your medical information better. This telemedicine service, other than providing you with online medical consultation, has also been actively providing you with valuable health information to guide you during these difficult times. You can certainly enjoy these conveniences right at your fingertips by downloading the MyPocketDoctor app and talking to our team of doctors about your health concerns. The MyPocketDoctor can be contacted through its Facebook page and/or agent chat on the website www.MyPocketDoctor.com. You may check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) through this website.

References:

www.who.int/news-room/

www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/

www.rappler.com

The common fear about COVID-19 is the Delta variant. It has fast transmission but it is less fatal than other variants. How true is this?

The Delta variant recently filled the global news as it posed a more significant threat of being highly transmissible even to those vaccinated. There are no firm studies that say the Delta variant causes more serious illness. However, they show similar symptoms with that of the old viral sequence. Although concerned officials and organizations are actively doing their part to mitigate the dire health situation, some health experts still warn that it may only get worse. The speculation is exceedingly feasible as new variants of COVID-19 continue to emerge that are more infectious.

The Early Stage and Recovery Stage

If you do not have access to antigen test, it is difficult to determine right away if you are carrying the disease. However, assuming that you had contact with a host, here is the possible timeline to observe:

Day 1- 5: No symptoms of COVID-19 yet. 

Day 5- onwards: Mild symptoms like muscle pain, fever, chills and sore throat can start to develop. Some can experience a combination or worsening of these four symptoms. Within 2-14 days after contact, you can start to feel tired, breathless, and loss of taste and smell.

While some infected patients recover within two weeks, others experience ongoing health problems even after the specified time. Post-COVID conditions occur within four or more weeks after first contracting the disease. They may feel symptoms like alterations in period cycles, cough, headache, mood changes, sleep problems, stomach pain and tiredness. Isolation, for 14 days of less, is the immediate solution when a person gets infected. Some might only require physical isolation and medicines while others need optimal supportive care. It all depends on the health condition of the person. This is true for those who show severe symptoms of COVID-19 that need ventilators or other oxygen-supporting equipment. After 14 days of isolation, the infected person does not automatically get out of confinement. Another 24 to 72 hours is needed to monitor any fever symptoms after not taking medicines.

The Side Effects of Treatment

During the COVID-19 treatment, a doctor may suggest taking different medications to increase the chances of success. 

However, a study showed that some combinations of these medications could lead to severe health conditions. For instance, the use of Heparin (an anticoagulation medicine) and Salbutamol could result in acute cholecystitis, which causes inflammation in the gallbladder. In some cases, it could also lead to making a hole between the walls of two upper chambers of your heart.

The use of steroids is also something to be discussed. Steroids are used for its immune-suppressing abilities. It can treat chronic diseases like asthma and autoimmune disorders. For COVID-19 treatment, the experts warned that using steroids could be a great preventive measure but it comes with a risk. Some potential harms of this medication include muscle weakness, gastrointestinal bleeding, and fungal infections.

As of August 2021, there are already more than 1.7 million cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the Philippines. The lethal effect varies from person to person. Children may experience multisystem inflammatory syndrome weeks after Delta variant contact. On the hand, the situation for older people becomes worse due to comorbidity on existing diseases.

Conclusion

What remains highly recommended is that every Filipino participate in preventing and mitigating the pandemic situation. The most important step is getting vaccinated. Vaccination provides long-term protection and solution. The other essential things to do are wearing masks, frequent hand-washing and social distancing. Doing these preventive actions can save you and those around you from the dire consequences of the mutating COVID-19 virus. If by any chance, you followed the preventive actions but still contract Delta variant, you can get an online consultation with MyPocketDoctor. The MyPocketDoctor website and mobile app (Android and IOS) now have Multi-factor security to guard your medical information better. This telemedicine service, other than providing you with online medical consultation, has also been actively providing you with valuable health information to guide you during these difficult times. You can certainly enjoy these conveniences right at your fingertips by downloading the MyPocketDoctor app and talking to our team of doctors about your health concerns. The MyPocketDoctor can be contacted through its Facebook page and/or agent chat on the website www.MyPocketDoctor.com. You may check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) through this website.

References:

www.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33299085/

www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/

www.health.harvard.edu

www.who.int