flu

March 18, 2021

Answering Common Questions About COVID-19 Vaccines

BAPC-logo As we begin our second year in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are finally beginning to see brighter days in the near future. This is largely due to the approval and distribution of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccinations. Since this is such an important and frequently asked about topic, the healthcare providers here at Abraham Family Medicine wanted to take some time to answer a few of the most commonly asked questions we have received from patients about the COVID-19 vaccines and their dependability.

Can I get COVID-19 from getting the vaccine?

No you cannot. While it’s true that any vaccine will expose your body to COVID-19, there are no intact virus molecules in any of the vaccines that can make a patient sick. The mRNA-based vaccines (including the ones created by Pfizer and Moderna) contain only manufactured mRNA molecules that carry the instructions for building the virus’ spike protein, but do not contain the virus itself. Once the vaccine is administered, the patient’s own cells use this mRNA to build up protein that triggers a response from their immune system. This effectively protects the immune system from future COVID-19 infection. The one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine is what’s known as a viral vectored vaccine. Once injected, the J&J vaccine instructs cells to make the SARS-2 spike protein, which then triggers an immune response.

How do we know they are effective if they have never been used on humans before?

They in fact have been used on humans, just not to the general public. Researchers actually began working towards mRNA vaccines over 20 years ago, but they have only become feasible thanks to technological breakthroughs made in the last decade. Design of mRNA components for COVID vaccines began over a year ago once the viral genome became available. These mRNA vaccines are considered ideal for prevention of COVID-19 since they are both safe and easily manufactured from common materials. The only thing expedited was manufacturing and distribution, not the science or research behind the vaccines themselves. Any COVID-19 vaccine made available to the public has been authorized and deemed safe by the FDA.

What are the expected side-effects associated with COVID-19 vaccines?

Although every person may react differently, common side effects include moderate pain or soreness in the injection site. Some people also experience some flu-like symptoms, however, this is a good sign and an indication that the vaccine is effective and being met by a healthy immune system.

Do I need to be vaccinated if I’ve already had COVID-19 or have tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies?

Yes, we recommend for people who have previously been exposed to COVID-19 to still seek out a vaccine when it becomes available to them. Experts strongly believe that although antibodies can potentially help fight off future COVID infections, immunity is far stronger following a vaccination that it would be following a natural infection.

We hope you found these answers informative and reassuring. It’s understandable if you have additional questions of your own about COVID-19 vaccinations, but we thought this would serve as an excellent place to start. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Abraham Family Medicine today. Our office is located in Snellville, not far from Grayson, Dacula, Lilburn and Loganville.

April 1, 2020

Answering Your Questions About COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

We understand that everyone wants to know about the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and what they can do to stay healthy and safe right now and in the future. It is unquestionably the dominant health topic in the country, and the world, at the moment. That’s why the healthcare providers here at Abraham Family Medicine wanted to take time to answer some common questions about the virus, best practices that we have received, and what we are doing to prevent exposure.

Question #1: How is the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) different from a normal flu?

There have been many comparisons made between the Coronavirus and the average flu season, but there are key differences to keep in mind. For instance, unlike the flu, there are no approved treatments for the Coronavirus (no Tamiflu equivalent) since it is such a new virus. There is no preventative vaccine available as of yet or immunity that people have built up over time. Also, the probability of developing severe health effects like lung disease are much higher with the Coronavirus than with the flu.

Question #2: What symptoms should I be looking out for?

The most commonly-reported symptoms as of today are fever, coughing, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Some patients with the virus may also experience diarrhea, muscle or joint aches, or headaches, in the early stages of the Coronavirus. These symptoms may be more severe in senior citizens and people with existing health conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular and lung disease.

Question #3: What is the best way to stop the spread of the COVID-19 (Corona) virus?

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Practicing social distancing is highly recommend and in some parts of the state mandatory with the exception those essential workers. That means staying at home other than essential errands (like trips to the doctor, pharmacy or grocery store) and making sure to stay a safe 6 feet away from other people when you encounter them. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds regularly, especially after any instance of being outside your home, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid any contact with people who are sick. Practice proper respiratory etiquette (sneeze our cough into a tissue and then wash hands, if tissue is not available use the fold/inside of your elbow). If soap and water is not available, clean your hands with hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Even people with no current symptoms may be infected, so it’s important to stay vigilant and responsible for the safety of those around you.

Question #4: What should I do if I begin to experience fever, cough, fatigue and/or shortness of breath?

Call our office to discuss these symptoms. We have staff on hand to answer your questions and/or concerns in addition to recommending that you need to be seen or not. For more severe cases we would recommend you visit your local ER. We recommend any person that begins experiencing these symptoms to immediately self-quarantine your self for 14 days. The only place you should go to is your doctor or local ER during this time and you should wear a facemask while out. Please note: during this state of emergency our Abraham Family Medicine is able to offer virtual visits/telehealth, which should be covered by your insurance plan.

Question #5: What is Abraham Family Medicine doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?

We are closely monitoring events in our local community and continuously updating our policies and procedures as a result of new information. We are dedicated to keeping all of our patients and staff as safe and healthy as possible. Abraham Family Medicine is following recommended guidance from public health authorities, including best practice for hygiene, infection control and medical professional team health. These measures include:

Increased cleaning in our offices, waiting and exam rooms.
Eliminating frequently touched areas such as doorknobs (at the moment, most public doors remain open at all times, no magazines in the waiting room, etc.)
Hand sanitizer stations available throughout the office and reception areas
Strict hand washing protocols for all employees
Strict patient screening process for any patient making an appointment for potential exposure or symptoms of COVD-19
Our waiting room is reserved for patients who do not have symptoms and have had no exposure – all other patients are asked to remain in their car until we are ready for them to enter our facility which will be a separate entrance than those patients who are well
We are taking temperature checks for anyone entering our office
Any Abraham Family Medicine employee who meets any of the CDC COVID-19 exposure guidelines, will be required to follow the CDC guidelines for testing and quarantine
We also can provide virtual visits/telehealth for patients who are at high risk or do not want to come into our office at this time. Most insurance companies will reimburse this as if you were in the office. We highly recommend and encourage you to contact our office to schedule a virtual visit.

Question #6: Is it safe to order takeout or delivery food from a restaurant during COVID-19 (Coronavirus) quarantine?

At the moment, health experts including the CDC are saying that it is safe to pick-up food from a restaurant, though this is subject to change. There is very little risk of virus transmission from touching a food container or even a food item itself. It’s important to be responsible and maintain proper distance from others while picking up your good and making sure to thoroughly wash your hands when you are home before eating.

Knowledge is a powerful tool in our current fight against the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) virus and its spread. Since it is so new, there is still so much to learn. But we will continue to update you as we gain more concrete information. In the meantime, we hope everyone will follow these recommendations and remain as safe and responsible as possible. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Abraham Family Medicine today. Our office is located in Snellville, not far from Grayson, Dacula, Lilburn and Loganville.

February 1, 2016

The 411 on the Flu & Pneumonia

Generally speaking, flu season lasts between October and May, but February is what is most considered peak flu season, and the month we are entering. There are a lot of myths floating around the internet about the flu, treatments, and the severity of pneumonia for patients of all ages, so the Abraham Family & Geriatric Medicine providers want to share some of our knowledge on a subject we strongly agree should not be underestimated! Let’s explore the 411 on the flu and pneumonia: what they are, how they can spread, who is at risk, and more.

What is pneumonia?

Simply put – pneumonia is a lung infection that can make you extremely sick. Commonly occurring after a person has a cold or the flu, pneumonia is generally a mild illness but can progress to more advanced and very dangerous forms (symptoms can include cough, fever, shortness of breath, chest pains, increased heart rate, nausea, and fatigue). Pneumonia develops from bacteria that enters the lungs (it can affect one lobe of the right/left lung, an entire lung, or both) which can make it difficult to breath and prevent the lungs from getting sufficient oxygen to the blood. Without proper amounts of oxygen flowing through the body, we’re not able to function or give our cells the energy it needs to perform as they should.

What is the flu?

The flu (also commonly referred to as influenza) is a highly-contagious respiratory virus that attacks the body and spreads through the upper and/or lower respiratory tract. Symptoms are similar to those of a cold (coughing, sore throat, stuffy nose, headache, and/or chest pains), however flu symptoms are more extensive (add high fever, body aches, and/or fatigue) – often seemingly coming from out of thin air.

How can you treat the flu and pneumonia?

One of the biggest misconceptions about the flu is regarding treatments and preventative measures that can be taken to help reduce the chances of catching this virus. Since it is a virus and not a bacterial infection, the flu cannot be treated using antibiotics. For most acute cases, pneumonia can clear up in a few weeks at home. Antibiotics, as recommended by a physician, may be needed to reduce chances of complications in regards to more advanced stages of pneumonia. Additionally, some forms of pneumonia can be extremely dangerous and require hospitalization for treatment. Flu symptoms generally last around five days but can often linger for several weeks after. If you notice symptoms worsening beyond this, it’s advised to seek medical care immediately as untreated flu and pneumonia cases can cause serious complications.

Who is most at risk of getting the flu or pneumonia?

Anyone – regardless of your age, the flu doesn’t discriminate on who it targets! Infants, the elderly, women who are pregnant, and those who suffer from chronic illnesses (like diabetes, heart or lung disease, HIV, etc.) are at a higher risk of experiencing complications from the flu. Since the flu is a viral infection, it’s spread from person to person. The flu virus is an airborne virus, so having direct contact with large groups of people increases your risk of inhaling these particles. You can also catch the flu by touching contaminated items that have been handled by someone infected, and especially through saliva (meaning it is best not to share drinks).

Can the flu and pneumonia be prevented?

There are new strains of the flu virus appearing each year – so it makes it difficult to provide generic medicine for treatment. The best way to prevent the flu is with the flu vaccine that comes in either a shot or nasal spray. To prevent pneumonia we recommend immunizations for children and especially adults (mainly concerning those over the age of 65). For geriatric patients, vaccination is the key to pneumonia prevention. Each year, 18,000 seniors die from pneumonia bacteria and therefore the new PCV13 (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) is highly recommended because it not only protects against 13 different strains of the pneumococcus bacteria but also against pneumonia itself. To better equip our patients and provide better protection against this bacterium, Medicare recently announced new benefit coverage that pays for the PCV13 vaccine – so we encourage all of our senior patients to consider getting vaccinated.

It may not always be easy to avoid catching a cold or the flu, but we believe education is the key to prevention! We’d love for all of our patients to lead healthy and happy lives so we like to recommend listening to your body, taking any extra precautions you need to protect yourself and your loved ones, and seeing an experienced provider who you trust when you may not be feeling your best. To learn more about the flu, pneumonia, or our healthcare services, please don’t hesitate to contact Abraham Family & Geriatric Medicine. For more health tips and safety information, be sure to also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+!