By Justine Myers, Lic. Ac.
The Covid-19 coronavirus is on the minds of many people these days. We’d like to share with you our precautionary measures to ensure the health and well-being of our patients and staff, as well as some links to helpful public health information.
There are common non-contagious/non-serious upper respiratory symptoms that some of our patients present with such as allergies, asthma or a lingering cough following a cold, and we will continue to treat these conditions as they do not pose a risk to others. It is also understood that being 3 feet away from those who are coughing or sneezing is considered to be safe, and our recliners are spaced appropriately.
Here are the measures we are taking at Acupuncture Together. We appreciate everyone’s participation and understanding:
–If you have a fever or flu-like symptoms, please stay home. The main symptoms of Covid-19 are fever, coughing and shortness of breath. Call your primary care physician if you’re in need of medical attention for these concerns.
-If you have an appointment scheduled and aren’t feeling well, you may call our office to cancel it on the same day and will not be charged.
-We’ll be regularly sanitizing surfaces that are frequently touched such as door knobs and call buttons. Sheets on chairs will be changed after patients who have upper respiratory symptoms. If you’d prefer to bring in your own sheet to place on a chair, you’re welcome to do so.
-Please use hand sanitizer when you check in at the front desk, or wash your hands in the bathroom if you prefer that to hand sanitizer, in order to help prevent the spread of germs. We have hand sanitizer placed on the reception area front desk and coffee table, and at every station in the treatment room. Feel free to help yourself at any of those locations. When washing your hands, please wash for at least 20 seconds.
-Cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than onto your hands. If you sneeze or cough on your hands or into tissues or a handkerchief, please use hand sanitizer afterwards.
-If you are coughing we will provide you with a face mask and ask you to wear it.
-Avoid touching your mouth, nose, eyes and face with unwashed/non-sanitized hands.
Here are some more guidelines and links to inform you about how to take care of yourself and recommended practices regarding Covid-19:
CDC Facts about Covid-19
FAQ by an Intensive Care and Infectious Disease Physician
American Society of Acupuncturists Covid-19 Fact Sheet
Business and Employer Guidelines