We truly are living in trying times especially in the United States where social distancing is highly influenced by politics. of course those of you reading this have the added benefit of realizing the importance of scientific knowledge, self-care and empowerment. 

While good general health won’t necessarily prevent Covid—19, following a nutrient-rich diet, maintaining an optimal level of 25 OH vitamin D, and getting regular exercise can result in a better outcome if you do get sick. 

Choose your friends wisely. Too many people still consider the virus a hoax and don’t understand the proven benefits of social distancing and masks. Masks are important but they also need to be used properly. We all need a mask supply. Cloth masks should be washed after each use or at least set aside for 7-10 days after each use. Disposable masks can be reused if not soiled but they need to be set aside for 7-10 days after each use. Same for N-95 masks, which fortunately have come down in price. Last week I bought a packet of 5 for $13 on Amazon. These I use for rare travel, picking up family at airports, or when in crowds. I have regular disposable masks for minimal crowds and cloth masks with filter inserts for medium crowds. Too often a person’s mask becomes contaminated then thrown in a purse and later handled and re-used. When the innocent party develops Covid they’re quick to say they always wore a mask, and the naive friends justify why they refuse to wear one. 

I found attractive cloth print masks at Johnny Was online with pockets for filter inserts. This company donates a packet of 5 to healthcare workers for each sale. I considered making insert filters but found packets of 10 reasonably priced at Atheta online.

Having an autoimmune disease doesn’t necessarily make one more likely to develop Covid. That depends on your condition and how well controlled it is. Certain chronic autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus are more likely to be associated with a dysfunctional immune system, which can limit the ability to fight infection. Patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are also at higher risk for developing Covid and having a poorer outcome. Other diseases that increase susceptibility include cancer, serious heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, severe obesity, chronic kidney disease, and sickle cell disease.  

With 3 vaccines now showing promise the current pandemic will eventually be more of historical significance. But for now consider getting a flu shot, maintaining an optimal Vitamin D level, strengthening and not stimulating your immune system with a healthy diet and dietary supplements, wearing a mask and practicing social distancing. Wishing you all a healthy and safe holiday season.