COVID is “Raising Alarms” Again and Here’s How to Stay Safe — Eat This Not That

By Ghuman

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has been raising alarms around the world as cases continue to surge. With the virus still very much a threat, it is important to take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Eating the right foods can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of infection. In this article, we will discuss how to stay safe by eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones. We will also provide some tips on how to make healthy food choices and how to prepare meals that are both nutritious and delicious. By following these guidelines, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the virus.

Raising Alarms Again: Here’s How to Stay Safe from COVID-19

As the world continues to grapple with the novel coronavirus, the number of cases is once again on the rise. With the pandemic showing no signs of slowing down, it’s important to stay vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing a face mask in public, washing your hands often, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Additionally, it’s important to practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet away from others.

When it comes to food, the CDC recommends eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Eating a healthy diet can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of getting sick. Additionally, it’s important to avoid eating foods that are high in sugar, fat, and salt.

Here are some tips for eating healthy during the pandemic:

  • Choose fresh fruits and vegetables over processed foods.
  • Opt for lean proteins like fish, chicken, and beans.
  • Limit your intake of sugary drinks and snacks.
  • Avoid eating out as much as possible.
  • Cook your food thoroughly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

By following these simple tips, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the novel coronavirus. Remember, the best way to stay safe is to practice good hygiene, wear a face mask, and stay at least 6 feet away from others.

COVID may rise this winter, as a new variant heads toward the United States; this despite President Joe Biden declaring the pandemic is “over.” So how can you stay safe? And what precautions do you need to take? Read on to find out everything you need to know about the latest in the coronavirus spread, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.—Dr. Michael Blaivas is a Chief Medical Officer at Anavasi Diagnostics.

Doctor analyzing patient blood and nasal swab testing sample for new covid-19 mutation.
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There is a new COVID-19 strain gaining momentum in the U.S that seems to be raising alarms. The strain, BF.7, is a subvariant of Omicron, and is now the third most prevalent strain in the U.S According to the CDC, BF.7 has accounted for 2.3% of COVID-19 cases in late September. While BA.5 is still the nation’s leading dominant strain, the CDC has seen a rise in cases reported as a result of BF.7. Researchers are estimating that the BF.7 variant may be more transmissible than parent strain BA.5. It’s currently unknown how severe the strain is and how effective the new Omicron vaccines are at protecting individuals from the new strain. However, research shows that it does have a different spike protein, a feature that allows it to enter cells, that may cause it to behave differently than other current variants. With that being said, there should be no major worry until more data proves the severity of illness. Continue precautions as normal, testing, staying home when sick, wearing masks and keeping up to date with vaccinations. 

Joe Biden holds up a face mask while giving remarks about the Affordable Care Act and Covid-19.
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President Biden recently shared commentary that he believes “the pandemic is over”, but many public health officials recognize that the U.S still faces problems with COVID-19. The CDC continues to identify COVID-19 as a pandemic in the U.S. Experts recognize there is no official marker that can make that definite decision; however, experts agree that the pandemic Is under control and in a better state than it was previously. Infection rates are falling, and majority of individuals have gained immunity from exposure and vaccines. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember to continue precautions as usual given new strains of COVID-19 continue to emerge (testing, masking up, isolating when ill, etc.). 

Young woman in a medical mask lies in bed.
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The CDC estimates that nearly 95 million people have contracted COVID-19, but there are a select few who never contracted the virus. Researchers are looking closer at these individuals – declaring them “superdodgers.” A team of researchers at the University of California are analyzing why these individuals have sustained immunity for such prolonged periods. Recent developments into this research reveal that there may be genetic mutations that prevent these individuals from developing COVID-19 symptoms. These studies are in their initial stages and could potentially pave the way to develop more effective COVID-19 treatments and vaccines in the future.  

Young woman sitting alone on her sofa at home and coughing.
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If you have a sore throat, it’s 80% likely that it’s caused by a viral infection, such as influenza or other viruses, many of which are in the large corona family, which makes it hard to distinguish between infections. Early strains of COVID-19have caused more respiratory symptoms, however recent Omicron infections are causing mild symptoms, such as sore throat. While sore throat is increasing as a reported symptom of COVID-19, it can also be the result of bacterial infection in the throat, which would then be classified as Strep throat. As we head into fall, individuals may also experience seasonal allergies that may cause these symptoms. If you’re feeling a sore or itchy throat, the best thing to do is to make sure there is no evidence of strep throat, which can be treated with antibiotics, versus other viruses the treatment for which is largely supportive. Covid-19 is another infection to rule out specifically to avoid from spreading it to others. It’s important to note that Covid-19 is really the only viral cause of sore throat that most people can get diagnosed easily almost anywhere. Other viruses are often much harder to diagnose and most of us do not have access to such test.

Young sick woman lies tired in bed with a face mask and holds her head because of a headache.
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While the CDC continues to adjust and update quarantine, travel and testing guidelines its important to be mindful that we need to keep up to date with vaccine and booster recommendations, at-home testing when necessary and being mindful to isolate when feeling sick. With flu and allergy season ramping up its common for individuals to forget that COVID-19 remains the forefront of rising infections. While we are noticing the pandemic retreat, we need to remain cautious as newer variants have the potential to ramp up infections at any point.