The development of the COVID-19 vaccine brings hope that we will soon be able to hug loved ones, greet people without a mask and meet friends for dinner. While the COVID-19 vaccines available have been proven safe and effective at preventing COVID-19, it’s understandable that there may be some apprehension around getting the vaccine. We’re here to help sort out the myths from the facts, so you can confidently get your vaccination and move toward an end to the pandemic.
Visit ihacares.com/covid19 for the latest COVID-19 vaccine updates and frequently asked questions .
Source: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
The COVID-19 vaccine offers hope for the future, but for now
ending this pandemic will require all the available tools. Your best defense
against COVID-19 is the combination of the vaccine, wearing a mask, social
distancing and continuing to wash your hands.
If you have symptoms of COIVD-19 or have been exposed, save
your spot at one of our testing locations.
The official kickoff to holiday shopping is just days away. Before you check-off your child’s wish list, check-out some pediatrician-approved gifts that every kid will love!
Pretend.
When a child is given the freedom to play without rules or guidelines, their imagination will take over. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) said it best: “Pretending through toy characters (such as dolls, animals, and action figures) and toy objects (like food, utensils, cars, planes, and buildings) help children learn to use words and stories to imitate, describe, and cope with real life events and feelings. Imagination is the key here! Imaginary play is a large part of a child’s social and emotional development.”
Pretend Shopping List:
Play kitchen with accessories (food, utensils, plates, etc.)
A simple puzzle holds so many benefits for a young mind – problem-solving, fine motor, language and cognitive skills. Looks for age and developmentally appropriate building blocks, puzzles, train tracks.
Assembly Required Shopping List
Building Blocks
Puzzles
Train tracks
Magnet tiles
Art
It’s amazing to see what kids are capable of without restrictions. Consider give an art basket to build their creativity and fine motor skills.
Art Shopping List:
Crayons/Markers/Color Pencils
Age appropriate paints
For older children, encourage them to try new media like oil pastels, chalk pastels, ink, etc.
Blank sketch books (try different sizes, large and small)
Glue
Kid-friendly scissors
Clay
Art accessories: pipe cleaners, pom poms, tissue paper, stickers and anything else you can think of!
Skip the video games.
There are educational apps and video games that work to teach the ABCs, but what they are missing – creative thinking, emotional development and impulse control – are much more important factors in the healthy development of your child. According to the AMA, Research suggests tablet-based toys may actually delay social development for infants and young children, because they don’t include real life facial expressions, gestures, and vocalizations.
Skip the Video Games Shopping List:
Match games
Card games
Board games
Age and interest appropriate Books
Magazine subscription
Busy board with a variety of locks and latches
Play!
Especially in the winter months, getting physical activity is so important – for kids and grown-ups alike! Not only does it help to develop good habits for later in life, but being physically active also holds benefits for emotional health.
Play! Shopping List:
Hula hoop
Sports gear (football, baseball, basketball – choose based on what interests your child)
Twister
Indoor bowling set
Yoga mat paired with child appropriate exercise classes or DVDs
Roller blades (don’t forget the helmet and pads)
Gym shoes
Push and riding toys for little ones just walking
This post was originally published November 2019.
IHA Urgent Care locations are open on holidays! Don’t spend your holiday waiting in a waiting room. Save your spot in line at an Urgent Care location near you and wait at home.
Communication tips for the best virtual patient experience
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many industries to rethink how they deliver services to the public. The medical field is no different. Virtual Care, or healthcare via phone, video or email, offers access to timely medical care without leaving home or entering a waiting room in-person. This format is new to a lot of patients, so we pulled together our providers recommendations for a successful telehealth medical appointment.
Practice using the technology. Download the platform (IHA providers use Zoom) ahead of your appointment time. Then, make sure it works! Virtual appointments require both video and audio. Ensure your device meets the requirements, know how to join your video appointment and do so a few minutes early.
Consider using headphones with a microphone for better sound and privacy.
Know where to go to troubleshoot any issues that come up. Logging on early will give you an opportunity to work out issues before your provider joins the conversation. Visit ihacares.com/resources/video-appointments for information on video appointments with an IHA provider.
Find a quiet space where you can focus on your conversation with your provider. Discourage interruptions by putting a sign on your office door or tell those around you it’s not a good time to interrupt.
Eliminate distractions before your appointment begins – do not login for your video appointment from the car, cafeteria, bathroom, or while making dinner.
Consider your background. Try to minimize natural light by not sitting in front of a window. The glare can make it difficult for your provider to see you in your video.
Bring a flashlight along to your appointment if you have a skin issue such as a lesion or rash to help your provider your skin. Measure the are prior to the appointment if possible.
Confirm your insurance coverage and copays for telehealth appointments. Virtual appointment coverage varies based on insurance companies, so be sure to confirm your personal coverage ahead of time to avoid unexpected bills.
Treat a virtual appointment as you would an in-person appointment. Have relevant health history and treatments at your fingertips and come prepared with your questions or concerns. Write them down beforehand if possible.
If you would have brought someone else with you to your in-person appointment, have them sit with you, virtually or in-person if you are living with them, for your virtual appointment. It can be helpful later to have a second person listening and even taking notes. They may hear something you miss or come up with a question you may not have thought of.
If you use medical devices on a regular basis (blood pressure monitor, heart monitor, thermometer, glucometer, etc.), have them close at hand during your virtual appointment. Or better yet, take readings prior to your call or video appointment.
When it comes to healthcare, we understand patients have individual needs and one size doesn’t fit all! So we offer several ways to access care – Actually 5!
Allowing patients to get care in a way that works best for them is what we’re all about. Click below to schedule your appointment, your way.
Pandemics can be stressful. Holidays and elections can be stressful. Virtual school, social distancing and not seeing friends and loved ones can be stressful too. All these things together can be a recipe for anxiety. Anxiety and fear can feel overwhelming for both adults and children alike. Sometimes it can be hard to identify anxiety or understand the strong emotions that can come along with anxiety, especially for children.
What does anxiety look and feel like?
Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones, your financial situation or job, or loss of support services you rely on
Being there for and taking care of family and friends is important but you should create a healthy balance with caring for yourself too. Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control on coping with the stress that comes with living through a pandemic.
Know what to do if you are sick and are concerned about COVID-19. Contact a health professional before you start any self-treatment for COVID-19.
If you think you may need a COVID-19 test, save your spot at an IHA testing location: ihacares.com/saveyourspot
Know where and how to get treatment and other support services and resources, including counseling or therapy (in person or through telehealth services).
Take care of your emotional health.Taking care of your emotional health will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family.
Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While social distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.
Make time for quiet. If you find comfort in prayer or meditation, make time to incorporate this quiet time into your day. As little as 10 minutes can make a difference in your anxiety level.
Quick tips for taking control of your anxiety.
Take control of your breathing. Try square breathing: breathe in through your nose, pause, breathe out through your mouth and pause, counting to four at each step. Watch Alberto Nacif, MD give instructions on square breathing here: https://bit.ly/2Izy1aL
Tighten and relax your muscles. In areas where you feel physical tension tighten your muscles and then relax them.
Go to your happy place. Yes! It does exist! Think of a time or a place in your life where you felt at ease, happy or at peace. Focus on the positive feelings associated with this moment in time.
Know when it’s time to seek medical professional help.
If stress or anxiety get in the way of your daily life several days in a row, it may be time to contact your primary care provider. There are many resources available for managing these feelings and your provider can help you find the best fit for you.
Traditional Thanksgiving gatherings with family and friends are fun but can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or the flu. Please be sure to follow the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) orders to make your Thanksgiving holiday safer and to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
The safest way to celebrate Thanksgiving this year is to celebrate with people in your household. If you do plan to spend Thanksgiving with people outside your household, take steps to make your celebration safer.
Wear a Mask
Wear a mask with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Wear the mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin.
Make sure the mask fits snugly against the sides of your face.
Stay at least 6 feet away from others who do not live with you.
Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread COVID-19 or flu.
Keeping 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
Wash your hands.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Keep hand sanitizer with you and use it when you are unable to wash your hands.
Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Attending a gathering.
Make your celebration safer. In addition to following the MDHHS order, consider these additional steps while attending a Thanksgiving gathering:
Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils.
Avoid going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled, such as in the kitchen.
Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates, and utensils.
Hosting a gathering.
If having guests to your home, please limit the number of people based on the MDHHS order. Additional ideas that can make your celebration safer include:
Have a small outdoor meal.
Have conversations with guests ahead of time to set expectations for celebrating together.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use.
If celebrating indoors, make sure to open windows.
Limit the number of people in food preparation areas.
Have guests bring their own food and drink.
If sharing food, have one person serve food and use single-use options, like plastic utensils and plates.
Consider new Thanksgiving activities.
Host a virtual Thanksgiving meal with friends and family who don’t live with you
Schedule a time to share a meal together virtually.
Have people share recipes and show their turkey, dressing, or other dishes they prepared.
Watch television and play games with people in your household
Watch Thanksgiving Day parades, sports, and movies at home.
Find a fun game to play.
Shopping
Shop online sales the day after Thanksgiving and days leading up to the winter holidays.
Use contactless services for purchased items, like curbside pick-up.
Shop in open air markets staying 6 feet away from others.
Other Activities
Safely prepare traditional dishes and deliver them to family and neighbors in a way that does not involve contact with others (for example, leave them on the porch).
Participate in a gratitude activity, like writing down things you are grateful for and sharing with your friends and family.
Safe travel tips for college students.
There is no universal approach to Thanksgiving this year for colleges and universities. Though some are encouraging students to stay on campus for the holiday, others are allowing them to go home for the long Thanksgiving weekend. Still more are sending students home to begin their winter break or finish their semesters remotely.
Take the risk seriouslyYoung people have been identified as sources of some family outbreaks, infecting their older, more vulnerable relatives who live in the same household. Experts also point out that travel could increase students’ risk of exposure to the virus, and that holiday celebrations held indoors could facilitate transmission.
Self-quarantine and get testedIn the days before leaving campus, students should be tested, preferably with a PCR test, the laboratory test used to diagnose the coronavirus. Many colleges and universities have been regularly testing their students, and some have rolled out special guidance for holiday travel.
Source: Centers for Disease Control
Save Your Spot for drive-up COVID-19 testing at select IHA Urgent Care locations
During this pandemic, feeling sick can be scary. If you have symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, it is important to get tested for COVID-19. You should always contact your doctor with questions or concerns, but having test results will help with their recommendations for your care.
IHA offers convenient drive-up COVID-19 testing for new and established patients. We offer both PCR and Rapid tests. Your provider will determine which test is best for you based on your symptoms. Rapid testing is not always recommended. Do not go to your local IHA Urgent Care or emergency department for COVID-19 testing.
Patients in need of a COVID-19 test, please be aware: 1. You must have an appointment. Save Your Spot at one of our COVID-19 testing locations below. 2. Testing is being prioritized for symptomatic patients and patients who have had a high-risk exposure. 3. COVID-19 test results usually take 24 to 72 hours to return, but due to recent significant increases in testing – results are taking up to 5 days. 4. If you are not experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have not had a high-risk exposure, please visit Michigan.gov to find an alternate testing location.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a great time to
spread the word about the importance of breast health all year long. Breast
cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer diagnosed in the United
States, typically in women, but it occurs in men as well. In 2020 alone, an
estimated 276,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Most of these new
cases will occur in women older than 50, but 10% will occur in women younger
than 45. Recognizing the warning signs of breast cancer and early detection
will mean more treatment options and a better chance of being cured.
Be aware of changes in your breasts
Lump
in the breast or underarm
Bloody
discharge from the nipple
Indentation
or retraction of the nipple area
Change
in breast size
Rippling
(flattening or indentation) of the skin covering the breast
Crustiness
or rash of the nipple or areola
What to you do if you notice a new symptom
Make
an appointment with a breast surgeon for an evaluation
Regular screening for breast cancer is done before there are any
signs or symptoms and is the best way to find cancer early when it’s easier to
treat. The first step(s) of screening for breast cancer typically include
mammogram and/or a patient’s awareness of changes in their breast.
Self-Awareness: Conduct regular and frequent self-exams of your breasts. Become familiar with your breasts, so you aware of, and able to, recognize changes right away.
Clinical Breast Exam: This exam is done in a clinical setting, by a physician who will use their hands to look for lumps or changes in your breasts.
Mammogram: An x-ray of the breast and the best way to detect cancer early. A screening mammogram is done for asymptomatic women, a diagnostic mammogram is done for women with a new symptom or mammographic abnormality.
A mammogram found something suspicious, now what?
If your doctor finds something concerning on your mammogram, the
first step would be diagnostic imaging to further characterize the area. This may include: diagnostic mammogram,
ultrasound, MRI.
Biopsy:
a small sample of cells or tissue is removed and reviewed under a microscope to
determine if cancer is present. There are a variety of ways to perform a
biopsy. Talk to your physician about the options available to you, if you
require a biopsy.
Diagnostic
Mammogram: an X-ray test used to diagnose unusual breast
changes, such as a lump, pain, nipple discharge, change in breast size or shape
or previous breast cancer. If your screening mammogram does show an
abnormality, you may need additional imaging like a diagnostic mammogram.
Breast Ultrasound: Using sound waves to
produce images of the internal structures of the breast, the breast ultrasound
can help a physician determine if a mass an abnormality is more likely a solid
mass or fluid-filled cyst.
MRI:
The MRI uses magnets and radio waves to produce images of the breast. These
images provide more information and details than other tests. Your physician
may recommend a breast MRI for you if your biopsy results were positive for
cancer or if you’re considered high risk for breast cancer. The breast MRI is
intended to be used along with a mammogram, not as a replacement.
Who would be considered high risk for breast cancer?
As a person ages, their risk of being diagnosed with breast
cancer increases, but there are a few other risk factors that you cannot
change:
Age:
Most breast cancers are diagnosed after age 50.
Genetics:
Inherited changes (mutations) to certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women
who have inherited these genetic changes are at higher risk of breast
and ovarian cancer.
Dense Breasts: Dense
breasts have more connective tissue than fatty tissue, which can sometimes make
it hard to see tumors on a mammogram. Women with dense breasts are more likely
to get breast cancer.
PersonalHistory
of Breast Cancer: Women who have had breast cancer are
more likely to get breast cancer a second time. Some non-cancerous breast
diseases such as atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ are
associated with a higher risk of getting breast cancer.
Family History of Breast Cancer: A woman’s risk for breast cancer is higher if
she has a mother, sister, or daughter (first-degree relative) or multiple
family members on either her mother’s or father’s side of
the family who have had breast or ovarian cancer. Having a first-degree male
relative with breast cancer also raises a woman’s risk.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and your risk factors is important for every woman and man. If you have questions or concerns about your breast health, schedule an appointment with an IHA Breast Surgeon.
Halloween and everything that surrounds it –
trick-or-treating, costume parades, bobbing for apples – are fun, but can
spread COVID-19 or other seasonal infections, like influenza. While celebrating
Halloween this year will look very different from every other year, there are
still ways to enjoy all that Halloween has to offer, while protecting yourself
and your family from picking up a virus.
Giving Out Candy
Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters
Give out treats outdoors, if possible
Set up a station with individually bagged treats
for kids to take
Wash hands or use hand sanitizer before handling
treats, and in between trick-or-treaters
Wear a cloth mask
Trick-or-Treating
Wear a mask
Make your cloth mask part of your costume
A costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth
mask
Do NOT wear a costume mask over a cloth mask. It
can make breathing more difficult
Masks
should NOT be worn by children under the age of 2 or anyone who has trouble
breathing
Wash your hands
Bring hand sanitizer with you and use it after
touching objects or other people
Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
Parents: supervise young children using hand
sanitizer
Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20
seconds when you get home and before you eat any treats
Stay at least 6 feet away from others who do
not live with you
Indoors and outdoors, you are more likely to get
or spread COVID-19 when you are in close contact with others for a long time
Make sure you are always doing the following. Every.
Single. Day.
Wear a mask
Stay 6 feet away from anyone that does not live
with you – indoors and outdoors
Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently
If you decide not to take your kids trick or treating this
year, here are some ideas how you can enjoy Halloween safely.
Decorate and carve pumpkins
Decorate your home for Halloween.
Carve pumpkins with members of your household or outside with neighbors or friends.
Walk from house to house, admiring Halloween decorations at a distance.
Visit an orchard, forest, or corn maze. Attend a scavenger hunt.
Go on an outdoor Halloween-themed scavenger hunt.
Visit a pumpkin patch or orchard. Remember to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently, especially after touching frequently touched surfaces, pumpkins, or apples.
Go to a one-way, walk-through haunted forest or corn maze.
Other Ideas
Hide Halloween treats in and around your house. Hold a Halloween treat hunt with household members.
Hold a socially distanced outdoor costume parade or contest so everyone can show off their costumes.
Host a socially distanced outdoor Halloween movie night with friends or neighbors or an indoor movie night with your household members.
Flu Before Boo!
Protect yourself and your family during flu season by getting your flu vaccine before Halloween. Scheduling your flu shot is easy! Click below and choose an appointment time that works for you.
Flu season is here,
which means Flu SHOT season is also here. Getting a flu vaccine this fall will
be more important than ever, not only to reduce your risk from flu but also to
help conserve potentially scarce health care resources in the wake of the COVID-19
pandemic.
What are the benefits of the
flu vaccination?
Receiving the flu vaccines
reduces flu illnesses, sick appointments, hospital stays, and missed time from
work or school. It can also be lifesaving for high risk patients like children,
seniors, and pregnant women.
Can the flu vaccine give me
the flu?
The viruses in the flu shot
are killed (inactivated), so you cannot get the flu from a flu shot. However,
you may experience some minor side effects like, soreness, redness or swelling
at the shot site, a low-grade fever, and some aches.
For those that receive the
nasal spray, the viruses are weakened and do not cause severe symptoms often
associated with influenza illness. Side effects from the nasal spray may
include, runny nose, sore throat, cough, wheezing, headache, vomiting, muscle
aches, or fever.
Who should get vaccinated
this season?
Everyone six months of age
and older should receive a flu vaccine at the beginning of the flu season,
typically every fall.
Who should not be vaccinated
against seasonal flu?
A patients age, health or allergies may determine they should not receive the flu vaccine. Talk with your physician to ensure you or your children should receive the flu vaccine.
Should a flu vaccine be given to someone
with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19?
No. Vaccination should be deferred
(postponed) for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, regardless of
whether they have symptoms, until they have met the criteria to discontinue
their isolation. While mild illness is not a contraindication to flu
vaccination, vaccination visits for these people should be postponed to avoid
exposing healthcare personnel and other patients to the virus that causes
COVID-19. When scheduling or confirming appointments for vaccination, patients
should be instructed to notify the provider’s office or clinic in
advance if they currently have or develop any symptoms of COVID-19.
Additionally, a prior infection with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 or flu does not protect someone from future flu infections. The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated every year.
Why should I get my child
vaccinated?
The flu is dangerous for all
people, but children under five years old are at an especially high risk when
they get sick with the seasonal flu. The flu vaccine is your children’s best defense against contracting and
spreading the flu.
When should I get a flu
vaccine?
For people receiving one
dose of the flu vaccine, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that people
get the flu vaccine by the end of October. If your child requires two doses,
they will need to be given four weeks apart, so chat with your pediatrician on
the best time to give the first dose. Getting the vaccine in the summer months
may result in reduced protection later in the flu season, especially for high
risk patients. There are benefits to receiving the flu vaccine later in
the season, so it’s never
too late to be vaccinated!
How effective is the flu
vaccine?
The patient’s age and health status will determine the
effectiveness of the flu vaccine, as well as how well the flu in the vaccine
matches the flu circulating in your community. The CDC estimates that the flu
vaccine reduces the risk of flu illness by between 40% and 60% among the
overall population, when the seasonal flu circulating is well-matched with the
flu vaccine.
Besides vaccination, how can
people protect themselves against the flu?
Getting the flu vaccine
every year is your best defense against the flu. People should also take
preventive actions every day. These include, frequently washing hands, covering
coughs using the inside of your elbow, not your hand, and avoid having contact
with people who are sick (even if they haven’t been diagnosed with the flu).
Where can I get the flu
vaccine?
This year’s flu shot is available at IHA Primary Care and
Ob/Gyn practices and pediatric doses are available at IHA Pediatric practices.
Adults and children may receive the flu shot at any IHA Urgent Care location.
Click below to schedule your flu shot.
Can the flu vaccine prevent
COVID-19?
No, the flu vaccine cannot
prevent you from becoming infected with COVID-19. You and your family should
continue practice CDC recommendations to minimize your risk of contracting
COVID-19, including, wearing masks outside of your home, social distancing and
frequent hand washing.
What is the difference
between Influenza and COVID-19?
Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both
contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.
COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and
flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are
similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms
alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19
share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two.
There are some key differences between flu
and COVID-19. COVID-19 seems to spread more easily than flu and causes more
serious illnesses in some people. It can also take longer before people show
symptoms and people can be contagious for longer. Another important difference
is there is a vaccine to protect against flu. There is currently no vaccine to
prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed
to the virus.
Can getting the flu shot increase your
risk of getting COVID-19?
Currently, there is no evidence that
getting the flu vaccine can increase your risk of getting COVID-19.
Is it safe to go out to
get the flu shot during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Yes. Getting a flu
vaccine is an essential part of protecting your health and your family’s health this season. To protect your health when getting a
flu vaccine, follow CDC’s recommendations for running
essential errands and doctor visits, like wearing a mask outside of
your home, social distancing and frequent hand washing. Continue to take
everyday preventive actions.
What is IHA doing to ensure it’s safe for
me and my family to come into the office for a flu vaccine?
Patient safety is, now more than ever, our
top priority. We’re taking several precautions to minimize your risk of
exposure to COVID-19 while visiting an IHA practice in person, including:
requiring all
patients, guests, staff, and providers to wear masks in our practices
providers and staff
wear personal protective equipment
taking the
temperature of all patients, providers, and staff upon entry into our practices
limiting the number
of people in our practices, which means you may be asked to wait in your car instead
of our waiting room
spacing the timing of
patient appointments
maintaining an
acceptable (greater than 6 foot) distance between patients in all common areas
following the
cleaning protocols laid out by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure
safe, sanitized environments
in pediatric
practices, we’re scheduling sick and well patients at different times of the
day
Scheduling your flu shot is easy! The flu shot is available at IHA and St. Joe’s Medical Group primary care and OBGYN practices, as well as, urgent care locations. Click below to find a time and location that work for you.
How to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure while playing
youth sports
Many youth sports leagues are easing back into practice and
in some cases competition. While it’s a much-welcomed change after a summer of
quarantine, whatever you or your children play, you should play it safe. There
are a number of steps you can take to help lower the risk of COVID-19 exposure
and reduce the spread while playing sports. The more people a participant
interacts with, the closer the physical interaction, the more sharing of
equipment there is by multiple players, and the longer the interaction, the
higher the risk of COVID-19 spread. Therefore, risk of COVID-19 spread can be
different, depending on the type of activity. Read on for guidance from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Make a game plan to reduce risk
Lowest Risk: Performing skill-building drills or
conditioning at home, alone or with members of the same household
Increasing Risk: Team-based practice
More Risk: Within-team competition
Higher Risk: Full competition between teams from
the same local geographic area (e.g., city or county)
Highest Risk: Full competition between teams
from different geographic areas (e.g., outside county or state)
If organizations are not able to keep safety
measures in place during competition (for example, keeping participants six
feet apart at all times), they may consider limiting participation to
within-team competition only (for example, scrimmages between members of the
same team) or team-based practices only
Similarly, if organizations are unable to put in
place safety measures during team-based activities, they may choose individual
or at-home activities, especially if any members of the team are at an
increased risk for severe illness
Source: CDC
Prepare before you participate
in sports
Bring supplies to help you and others stay
healthy—for example, masks (bring extra), hand sanitizer with at least 60%
alcohol, broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, and drinking water.
Prioritize participating in outdoor activities
over indoor activities and stay within your local area as much as possible.
If using an indoor facility, allow previous
groups to leave the facility before entering with your team. If possible, allow
time for cleaning and/or disinfecting.
Check the league’s COVID-19 prevention practices
before you go to make sure they have steps in place to prevent the spread of
the virus.
If you are at an increased risk for severe
illness or have existing health conditions, take extra precautions and preventive
actions during the activity or choose individual or at-home activities.
Stay home if sick
If the participant has symptoms of COVID-19, has been
diagnosed with COVID-19, is waiting for COVID-19 test results, or may have been
exposed to someone with COVID-19, they should stay home and not participate in
any sports.
Have smaller team sizes
Sports with a large number of players on a team
may increase the likelihood of spread compared to sports with fewer team
members.
Limit your team to a core group of participants,
by restricting non-team players from joining when your team is short players
and not adding new members during the season.
Reduce physical closeness between players when possible
Maintain at least 6 feet between yourself and
your teammates, other competitors, and officials while actively participating
in the sport.
Focus on building individual skills, like
batting, dribbling, kicking, and strength training.
Avoid high fives, handshakes, fist bumps or
hugs.
Keep space between players in the practice
areas, including on the sideline, dugout, and bench.
Wait in car or away from the playing area until
just before the warm-up period or the beginning of the game.
Avoid congregating in the parking lot or near
the field before or after games.
If it is not possible to avoid congregating,
practice social distancing by ensuring there is at least 6 feet between
participants.
If social distancing is not possible, wear a
mask whenever possible to reduce risk of virus transmission.
Space out spectators by 6 feet
Limit nonessential visitors, spectators, and
volunteers. Ensure they wear masks and maintain social distancing.
Wear a mask if possible
Wear a mask if feasible, especially when it is
difficult to stay less than 6 feet apart from other people or indoors, for
example in close contact sports such as basketball.
Lower intensity sports: Emphasize wearing masks
and practicing social distancing for lower intensity sports.
Higher intensity sports: People who are engaged
in high intensity activities, like running, may not be able to wear a mask if
it causes difficulty breathing.
If unable to wear a mask, consider conducting
the activity in a location with greater ventilation and air exchange (for
instance, outdoors versus indoors) and where it is possible to maintain
physical distance from others.
In situations where individuals might raise
their voices, such as shouting or chanting, we strongly encourage wearing
masks.
For youth athletes, parents, coaches, and sports
administrators should decide if the kids need to wear a mask.
It is not known if face shields provide any
benefit as source control to protect others from the spray of respiratory
particles. CDC does not recommend use of face shields for normal everyday activities
or as a substitute for masks.
Minimize sharing of equipment or gear
Encourage players to bring their own equipment
if possible, like gloves, balls, and helmets.
Limit the use of frequently touched surfaces on
the field, court, or play surface.
Bring your own water to minimize use and
touching of drinking fountains.
Clean and disinfect shared items between use.
Don’t share towels, clothing, or any items used
to wipe your face or hands.
Avoid sharing food, drink containers (e.g.,
coolers), and utensils.
Cover your coughs and sneezes.
When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or the
inside of your elbow. Used tissues should be thrown away and hands washed
immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer
with 60% alcohol.
If soap and water are not readily available,
hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol can be used.
Wash hands
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least
20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol.
Before and after you play.
Before adjusting your mask—review information
about proper use, removal, and washing of masks.
Limit travel outside of your area
Consider competing against teams in your local
area (neighborhood, town, or community).
Checklist for coaches
Send a welcome email or call parents (for youth players) and/or players. Inform them about actions that the sports program will take to protect players. Remind them to stay home if sick or if they have been around someone who is sick.
Be a role model. Wear a mask and encourage family members, fans, officials, and sports staff to wear one during practices and games.
Provide hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to players before and after practice/game and encourage them to wash their hands with soap and water.
Educate players about covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or their elbow. Discourage spitting.
youths practicing basketball
Encourage players to focus on building individual skills
Remind players about social distancing and identify markers (such as signage or tape on floor).
Encourage your players to focus on building their individual skills and cardiovascular conditioning, so they can limit close contact with other players.
Check with your sports administrator to make sure they are following cleaning and disinfection recommendations.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces on field, court, or play surface (such as drinking fountains) at least daily or between use.
Clean and disinfect shared equipment.
If you have questions or concerns about your child participating in sports this fall, make an appointment to talk it over with yout pediatric provider.
You’ve heard about the benefits of breastfeeding your baby. You know breast milk is best for your baby (the antibodies!). But let’s face it, returning to work after weeks of cozy breastfeeding sessions creates a lot of anxiety and pressure (pun intended) for mom. There’s so much information out there online and from every woman you know that’s ever had a baby. We’re here to breakdown some of the most common concerns around returning to work and continuing to provide breastmilk for your baby. Read on to learn how some common myths around breastfeeding while working are, well, busted.
Myth: Nursing less often will create more milk when I do nurse. Actually, the more you nurse (or pump), the more milk you will produce. Your body is creating your milk supply based on demand. Feed your baby when they ask (in their own way), and your body will produce the milk they need. If you are returning to work, this will help in ensuring you are producing what your baby needs while pumping.
Myth: My baby won’t breastfeed once they get used to bottles. You will always be your baby’s favorite way to get their milk. When your baby is with you, they will expect to be breastfeed. If your baby has a predictable feeding schedule, when you return to work ask your caregiver to hold-off on giving them a bottle close to your arrival, so you can breastfeed your baby when you return home. Also, be sure you drink plenty of fluids, avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Staying hydrated is important in general, but especially while breastfeeding.
Myth: I need a freezer full of milk to return to work. Just when a new mom or dad feels like they are adjusting to life as parents, it’s typically time to return to work. For a mother who is breastfeeding, this transition can be especially difficult. A few weeks before your re-entry into the working world, start mixing some pumping and bottle feeding into your baby’s routine. This will help in two ways; your baby will get some practice with and be more willing to take a bottle and you will have some milk stored for backup. We recommend a minimum supply of two days’ worth of breastmilk for a smooth transition. As you pump at work, you will get into a rhythm of producing what your little one needs. You don’t need a freezer stocked full of milk in order to return to work.
Myth: I can’t breastfeed and pump at the same time. There’s a balance between pumping and breastfeeding. Once you find it, your body will respond and produce the milk required. To start working pumping into your feeding schedule, pump between breastfeeding your baby. Pump about an hour AFTER you feed, and at least an hour BEFORE your baby’s next feeding. If you are returning to work, take note of when your baby typically eats, and pump based on that schedule. Continue to demand milk consistently and your body will get the signal to produce enough breast milk for your little one.
Myth: I will have to stop breastfeeding when I return to work. Every mother has a legal right to take breaks from work to pump. That said, many women may still be anxious about taking this time. While you are pregnant and before you go on maternity leave, chat with your boss about a pumping schedule. That way, your boss will know what to expect upon your return and you will have some peace of mind knowing there is a plan in place to ensure you can continue to provide breast milk for your baby. Also, be sure to understand the accommodations available to you in the work place for pumping. Where is the room? Where will you store the milk you pump throughout the day? To get your questions answered, chat with a human resources rep or a colleague that recently transitioned from maternity leave and pumped at your office, to get your questions answered.
Myth: I won’t be successful at work if I have to stop and pump. For a mother that wants to continue providing breast milk for her baby, taking the time to pump will create peace of mind, and allow you to be more focused when at your desk. You may even want to use the time you spend pumping to catch up on some emails, or read through an article or report that you can’t seem to work into your day while sitting at your desk. Some of your colleagues will understand when you excuse yourself a few times a day to pump, and others may not. The fact is, it’s your right to take time to pump during the work day, so try to focus on your baby and not the opinions of those around you. If you have concerns, talk to a manager or supervisor.
Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to take care of your baby, but it can be a struggle too. If you are feeling stressed about producing milk for your baby, make an appointment to chat with a provider. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to breastfeeding, and they can provide the support you need as you work through challenges that come with being a new mom.
Originally Posted August 2019
Did you know IHA offers Breastfeeding Medicine? While breast milk is felt to be nature’s first food, breastfeeding does not always come naturally. Breastfeeding is a physiological process that involves both the mother and baby. We provide specialized breastfeeding care for both mother and baby. Learn more about IH Breastfeeding Medicine below.
