Talk to Your Provider about COVID-19

The COVID-19 virus continues to spread worldwide and in our community. The virus causes a wide range of symptoms. Some people do not get sick, some have minimal cold symptoms, others feel very sick, and their symptoms last for weeks, while some are hospitalized with trouble breathing. Finally, some people recover but feel tired or run down for months after their illness. It is hard to predict which COVID-19 illness you will experience.

Vaccination helps minimize the chance of hospitalization or prolonged COVID-19 symptoms. Vaccination is safe for most people, and we recommend it for anyone at high risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms. People at increased risk include those over the age of 50 or those with any of the following medical problems: cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, COPD or asthma, diabetes, dementia, heart disease or congenital heart problems, a weak immune system, being overweight or physically inactive, pregnancy, smoking, an active drug or alcohol abuse, or a previous stroke. If you have more than one medical problem on the list, your risk of a nasty COVID-19 infection is even higher.

Talk to your provider about COVID-19 vaccination. We cannot change your age, but we can work to control any medical problems you may have, which will lower your risk. We would also be happy to answer any questions you have about vaccination.

– Dr. Cristella Torres, M.D., Primary Medical Care Physician