Bloomifesto #4 is especially important today. To ensure we’re on the same page let’s get a basic understanding around how the virus works.
How does the Virus Spread?
COVID-19: Person-to-person spread
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:
– Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet)
– Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Can someone spread the virus without being sick?
– The latest intel suggests people are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest).
– Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms—reports indicate this is occurring with this new COVID-19, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. That said, its a good idea to refrain from touching your face when possible.
How easily the virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.
The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas.
Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.
So what are the symptoms of the 2019 (COVID-19) virus?*
– The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell.
How can you protect yourself in public?
– If you see a a person sneeze or cough keep your distance. (Six feet is recommended.)
– If you are already in proximity, avoid inhaling (Yes, hold your breath!) and put a couple of meters between you and the person.
– If can… offer them a tissue.
– If you have some on hand offer them hand sanitizer.
– If you have the opportunity ask if they’ve been to see the doctor to get tested for the virus. If not, suggest that they get diagnosed to ensure they’re not a carrier.
– If you need to place an order for your groceries, your “greens” or any other necessity, consider calling in your order so that it can be pre-packed and ready to go—to help you avoid spending more time than necessary in public. If you are able, ask a well friend to pick it up for you!
– Hand washing. This seems like it should be a simple process but it isn’t as simple as you might think. Did you you know that a proper hand wash has to take at least 20 seconds? According to the World Health Organization this is how you wash your hands!
1. Wet hands with water
2. Apply single shot of soap
3. Rub hands palm to palm
4. Rub back of each hand with the palm of other the hand with fingers interlaced
5. Rub palm to palm with fingers interlaced
6. Rub with backs of fingers to opposing palms with fingers interlocked
7. Rub each thumb clasped in opposite hand using rotational movement
8. Rub tips of fingers in opposite palm in circular motion
9. Rub each wrist with opposite hand
10. Rinse hands with water
11. Dry thoroughly
If you are experiencing symptoms, please:
– Stay home.
– Clinics are overrun and we are being urged to see a doctor only if our symptoms are beyond mild. If you are diagnosed you must follow the doctors recommendations to ensure the virus is contained. (NOTE: test results can take 2 weeks or more to get confirmed)
Other preventative measures include:
– Sneezing and or coughing into a tissue.
– Wash hands immediately after any sneezing/coughing. If you can’t reach a tissue use the crook of your arm.
– Avoid touching your face unnecessarily as many bugs are passed through mucous membranes.
While we don’t have any science around how cannabis might be beneficial during this time we can look to how cannabis might benefit people during any trying time.
If you are feeling anxious CBD might be something to look at. Sleep is important in prevention and recovery so you may want to look at integrating some THC capsules or oils into your bedtime regime.
Lastly while there is no evidence to support that smoking cannabis will have negative effects on your lungs, it can be uncomfortable to smoke when suffering a respiratory ailment. Vaporizers tend to be a little easier on the airways so if there was ever a time to explore a new mode of consumption, now is it! Again, if you aren’t feeling up to snuff, call ahead to have your order pre-packed. Our full menu is up to date and our Click and Collect feature allows you to pre order so you can reduce the amount of time you need to spend in the shop!
Be well.