OK..OK.. I know it is important that we as a society are aware of potentially deadly contagious diseases that are circulating among us, but… what do we do as individuals to protect ourselves? We are always looking for the “silver bullet” or, better yet, the “magic pill”. Here’s the secret… There are no secrets! Unless you count the resurgence of hand-washing, which is always your best line of defense.
Strictly speaking, viruses can't die, for the simple reason that they aren't alive in the first place. Although they contain genetic instructions in the form of DNA (or the related molecule, RNA), viruses can't thrive independently. Instead, they must invade a host organism and hijack its genetic instructions.
At this writing, I see where there have been 20,000 flu-related deaths this season, which is casually mentioned in discussing the handful of domestic deaths as a result of the coronavirus. NEW deadly diseases make the news--and rightfully so. But every story I read and every report I hear says the same thing: When it comes to prevention on the individual level, common sense prevails.
Eat right, stretch, exercise, manage your stress, avoid sick people (tough one), stay hydrated, get plenty of sleep, turn off the TV, go to your chiropractor and, of course, wash your hands.
Make a commitment to your health today.
Stay well adjusted,
Dr. Dan Kammer