Month: September 2021

Scientists believe that the COVID-19 Delta variant is the most contagious variant yet. The Delta variant is now responsible for approximately 90% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. It drove record-breaking surges in India and is now the dominant strain for COVID-19 infections across the globe.  The virus is growing, and so is its ability to get around the body’s immune defenses.  

The World Health Organization (WHO) began monitoring the COVID-19 virus in January 2020. The variants had not arose or been publicly discussed at the beginning of the pandemic (though some speculated and correctly predicted). The WHO called these variants by the changes in their genetic sequences and are now identified by the letters of the Greek alphabet; the first four variants are called Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta. These Variants of Concern (VOC) make the world population more at risk of increased sickness, fatality, and/or decreased vaccine effectiveness. 

How Do Viruses Mutate and Create Variants?  

A virus infects human cells and makes more copies of itself the longer that it exists–this is a virus’s purpose. The virus then continually creates copy errors, which are also known as mutations. These new characteristics change how the virus infects people and animals, causing more severe disease, becoming more contagious or even resistant to vaccines.  The surface of the virus looks different than the original version when mutations happen, ultimately making it detectable for scientists to discover. This is exactly why yearly vaccinations are needed for the flu because influenza viruses are continually changing. 

What are Viral Loads? 

A viral load is a measurement of how many viruses are currently in the body of an infected person and also how contagious a virus is. Scientists test for viral loads in COVID-19 by swabbing an infected person’s nose and throat. People with a high viral load are more likely to infect others with the virus. People who are infected with the Delta variant of COVID-19 have viral loads approximately 1,000 times higher than those who were infected with the initial strain. Research studies are suggesting that people infected with the Delta variant also reach their peak viral load faster.  This makes it easier for the infection to spread, even before people begin having symptoms.

Protecting Yourself Against the COVID-19 Delta Variant

Because the Delta variant is so contagious, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) recently revised its recommendations for wearing masks in public spaces.  All Americans should resume wearing masks in indoor public spaces in regions where COVID-19 is spreading rapidly. This recommendation includes people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. All people who are immunocompromised or live with vulnerable household members should wear masks in indoor spaces.  The CDC also recommended that all students, teachers and staff at K-12 schools wear masks whether or not they are vaccinated. 

Conclusion

People need to have plenty of face masks to protect themselves and prevent spreading the COVID-19 Delta variant. DiaMedical USA has a wide variety of face masks ready to ship. 3-ply and KN95 face masks are in stock for adults and smaller-sized pediatric 3-ply masks for children.  NIOSH-approved N95 masks are in stock for healthcare professionals.  Disinfectant cleaners, gloves and touch-free thermometers are also ready to ship. Please visit the DiaMedical USA Infection Control page to see all of the products that are available. DiaMedical USA is working hard to provide customers with all of the resources to fight the spread of COVID-19 infection. For more information, reach out to a DiaMedical USA expert at 877-593-6011 or info@diamedicalusa.com.

5 Activities That Can Reduce Elderly Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health issue that 10%-20% of seniors deal with on a daily basis. It’s normal that once you reach the age of 60, body functions slow down or some people think about mortality more often – and ever since the 2020 pandemic hit, anxiety is more prominent than before. Fearful thoughts and worried minds are normal, and so is talking about it! Whatever the trigger of anxiety for you or your loved one may be, there are different options for coping so that each individual can find the thing that works best for them. 

Always consult with your doctor or caregiver before making any adjustments or changes to your daily routine. 

 

5 Activities That Can Reduce Elderly Anxiety:

1. Games/Puzzles – For someone who’s retired, or has extra time on their hands, having a sense of purpose can distract them from anxious thoughts. A game gives an immediate purpose with a quick solution. For board games, consider Yahtzee, Chess, Bingo, and more. There are also puzzles with bigger pieces, which can be ideal for those with limited dexterity or vision impairment. Completing games can give instant gratification and a sense of accomplishment – which, believe me, puzzles aren’t easy!

2. Calming Exercise – Physical activity, big or small, increases the endorphins throughout the brain and nervous system. It’s been scientifically proven that the release of this natural chemical relieves stress and pain throughout the body. Here are a few examples on how elderly people stay active, make sure you consult with your doctor regarding what activities or exercises are safe for you: 
   1. Daily Walks Outside 
   2. Breathing Exercises 
   3. Water Aerobics
   4. Chair Yoga

3. Take a Trip Down Memory Lane – It is fun to tell stories about your life – funny moments, memories with loved ones, or perhaps a life changing experience. There are some people who don’t want to talk about old memories, so proper consent is always important. In either case, the simplest of questions can help bring joy: What’s their favorite animal? Do they have a favorite food? There are also questionnaires online about how to get to know someone better – these can easily spark up conversations while helping reduce anxiety.

4. Entertainment – Music is said to release dopamine to the brain, which is a naturally occurring happy chemical. There are great classics out there, whether it be older music or movies. Revisiting the wonderful creations of their times can spark a lot of joy and bring back happy memories.

5. Be an Open Ear – People with anxiety tend to talk a lot about it (often, repetitively). Sometimes, just being there to listen and acknowledge their thoughts can help them feel calm. Advice for those struggling with anxiety is not always recommended, so always ask if someone wants advice before giving any. 

 

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are having a severe and sudden change in physical or mental health, please call 911, contact a local emergency facility or consult with your doctor. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider, and never disregard the advice given because of information you have received from our website.