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Important Message From Dr. Mariana Liu

    FCBC would like to provide you with an important message from one of our own healthcare professionals, Dr. Mariana Liu, internal medicine physician at Banner University Medical Center in Phoenix
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    The global spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) has become a central topic of discussion and concern to many of us. There are many questions and unknown answers about the current COVID-19 pandemic. The concern should be real and the risk of exposure should not be taken lightly.  Those of us who can should isolate at home and maintain social distancing from each other. Limit unnecessary outings and avoid group gatherings.  

    Here is a summary from the AZ Department of Health about COVID-19:

    Patients with confirmed COVID-19 ranged from having little to no symptoms to mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure and can include:

    • fever
    • cough
    • shortness of breath

    This virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. This person-to-person spread is likely through close contact with respiratory droplets that are created when someone coughs or sneezes. With most respiratory viruses, people are thought to be the most contagious when they are sick and exhibiting symptoms. With COVID-19, there have been reports of spread before people exhibited symptoms.

    There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. Everyday actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses include:

    • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
    • It is especially important to clean hands after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
    • Stay home when you are sick.
    • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
    • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands).
    • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

    This situation remains dynamic and changes daily.  If there is a chance of exposure to someone with COVID-19, close contacts should monitor their health and call their healthcare provider if they develop any symptoms suggestive of COVID-19. They should continue to isolate themselves to prevent further asymptomatic spread.

    We need to remain vigilant and continue to flatten the curve in order for our healthcare system to be able to handle those that will become very sick.  Continue to be in prayer for those affected and those caring for the sick. 

    In Him,
    Mariana