Dr. Tiffany Jumaily

Update on COVID-19

Updated March 10, 2021

Hello friends, 

COVID vaccines are becoming more widely available, and distribution should continue to accelerate with the recent FDA approval of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. All the vaccines work very well at preventing severe illness - so when available, I recommend taking whichever is offered. For our breastfeeding moms: antibodies generated from the COVID vaccine have been shown to pass through the breastmilk to provide some protection for baby. It is safe and recommended to get vaccinated while breastfeeding. For pregnant moms, there is not much research, so I recommend discussing with your Obstetrician or Midwife to determine what is the best course of action. 

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New guidelines for vaccinated individuals was released from the CDC this week. Further details on each of these points can be found on the CDC website, linked above. 

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Fully vaccinated people can:

• Visit with other fully vaccinated people indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing

• Visit with unvaccinated people from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 disease indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing

• Refrain from quarantine and testing following a known exposure if asymptomatic

The situation is changing daily, and so are the recommendations expressed by the CDC and health departments. The advice given below is current as of publication date. Please follow the CDC or LA department of public health for the most up to date guidelines.

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What can we do to protect ourselves? 

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-Hand washing. Cleaning your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the best way to remove and deactivate viral particles from our hands. If soap and water are not available, a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can be used. 

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-Wear a mask. Wearing a face mask is recommended for everyone over age 2 when in the community and around others. Face masks primarily reduce spread of droplets from ourselves onto others. COVID-19 is often spread when people are pre-symptomatic and do not know that they are getting sick. Face masks should be washed regularly. The CDC believes that the Coronavirus that causes COVID-19 might be spread through aerosolized particles. So, it's best to wear your mask when in doors even if you are not in close contact with others. 

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-Practice social distancing. Viruses spread via close contact. Avoid unnecessary air travel and take a rain check on large gatherings. We need to reconsider events and travel that might put ourselves (and others) at risk. When we do see others, try to meet outside. Studies are showing that contact outside poses much less risk for viral transmission than meeting indoors. 

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-Keep your immune system strong by eating antioxidant-rich foods, omega-3 fatty acids, avoiding excess sugar and processed carbohydrates and maintaining good sleep. 

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-Vitamin C. Additional Vitamin C can be helpful due to its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Recommended doses are 500 mg-3 grams daily.

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-Vitamin D supplements and elderberry have been shown to help prevent and fight viral upper respiratory tract infections, however, these supplements might worsen the inflammatory cascade during acute infection. It is recommended to stop all vitamin D and elderberry supplements at the first sign of illness

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-Be mindful of the media exposure and discussion of this virus at home around your children. Even toddlers and infants can pick up on underlying anxiety and we need to reassure them with confidence. Reassure your children that you will do your best to keep them healthy and safe. 

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We want our office to remain a safe place to bring your children. As such, we are limiting sick patients in the office. We have implemented the use of telemedicine for some sick visits. Please call the office to schedule your appointment, and we can conduct a visit virtually using a HIPPA-compliant platform. 

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Stay well and stay safe. 

-Dr. Tiff