How to Address Coronavirus Fears and Questions
/I’ve been getting more and more calls and questions from worried patients about the coronavirus at my pharmacy. It’s been challenging to respond when the situation continues to rapidly evolve and new information is available every day. Adding to the confusion and hysteria is the shortage of important infection control supplies. Most pharmacies and wholesalers are completely out of stock of face masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and rubbing alcohol!
Pharmacists can help calm fears and clarify questions about infection control:
Put the risk in perspective - 35 million people got the flu last season, including 500,000 hospitalizations and 34,000 deaths
Reinforce hand hygiene - Washing hands with soap and hot water is the best way to prevent infection. If you can’t wash with soap and water, then use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Discourage use of masks for people without symptoms - Unnecessary use is leading to shortages
Check out the CDC’s Information for Health Care Professionals about the Coronavirus.
If you have access to the Pharmacist’s Letter (you should definitely subscribe if you don’t!), they have great information in the March issue.