The number of COVID-19 cases has been on a downward trend in our hospital and region following a spike beginning six weeks ago.
 
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COVID-19 Health and Wellness Information

The number of COVID-19 cases has been on a downward trend in our hospital and region following a spike beginning six weeks ago. This is welcome news and indicates that the measures we have in place are working to contain the SARS-CoV-2 virus. With everyone taking personal responsibility to wear a mask and stay physically distant, we are slowing the spread of the virus. However, I must emphasize that this is no time to become complacent. We all must continue doing our part and watching out for one another, including staying home when we are ill.

Potential COVID-19 symptoms to watch out for include:
  • Fever or chills
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Headache
  • Cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Diarrhea or nausea
If you are on the Coral Gables or Marine campus, log your symptoms in the Daily Symptom Checker and call your physician. As always, call 305-243-ONE-U if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or believe you may have been exposed. Those on the Medical Campus should call 305-243-8378.
Roy E. Weiss, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor of Medicine
Chair, Department of Medicine
Chief Medical Officer for COVID-19

THE “EYES” HAVE IT!

One source of entry of the COVID-19 virus into the body is as innocuous as rubbing your eye. We may not be aware, but the occasional unconscious rubbing of the eye is a likely source of absorbing the virus. The coronavirus can spread through the eyes, just as it does through the mouth or nose. Masks are great at protecting us from the latter but not the eyes. When someone who has coronavirus coughs, sneezes, or talks, virus particles can spray from their mouth or nose onto your face. The droplets can also enter your body through your eyes. You can also become infected by touching your eyes after touching something that has the virus on it. Wear masks and keep your hands properly sanitized.
 

KEEP THOSE SURFACES CLEAN

In addition to washing your hands, cleaning and disinfecting can stop the spread of germs and protect you from getting sick. Frequently touched surfaces, including phones, desks, keyboards, doorknobs, handles, light switches, countertops, toilets, faucets, and sinks, should be cleaned at least daily. Be sure to disinfect following the directions on the label of the product you are using. Different disinfectants may require you to keep the surface wet for a period of time to be effective. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency website to ensure that the product you are using is proven to work on the virus that causes COVID-19.
 

VACCINE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine is part of the global effort to develop a vaccine for the COVID-19 virus and is leading two separate trials. Researchers are looking for volunteers who are 18 or over and have not had COVID-19. They are looking to enroll a diverse group in terms of age, gender, race, ethnicity, and underlying health issues. You can find out how to take part by going here. Please include your name and best contact information when responding.
Get your flu shot today

STAY POSITIVE

Being in isolation or quarantine can bring on difficult emotions like loneliness, frustration, or a feeling of not being in control. These are all valid and normal. Maintaining your typical schedule, including sleeping and exercising, will help you regain a sense of control. Staying connected to friends and family using video conferencing can make you feel less isolated. Be sure to keep those elements of your routine for your wellbeing.

Also, consider decreasing your news consumption. It’s important to stay aware, but too much news about the same topic can be overwhelming. Try setting aside 10 to 15 minutes once or twice daily to check trusted news sources.
 

HYDRATION HABITS

Water serves as a solvent for the transportation of nutrients, helps excrete waste, and lubricates joints. Dehydration can cause dizziness, headache, fatigue, and decreased mental focus.

Sometimes it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated when you are always on the go. Make hydration an everyday habit by drinking plenty of fluids during and between meals. Remember to increase your intake when exercising or spending a lot of time in the heat. Also, avoid sugary and caffeinated beverages and drink more water.
 

YOGA FOR THE MIND AND BODY

Being physically active keeps our minds and bodies healthy. Depending on your current health or circumstances, however, you may be limited in what exercise you can do. Yoga blends mindfulness and breathing, can be low impact, and can be done at home. The Herbert Wellness Center is offering a variety of free virtual yoga classes.
 

GETTING HELP

Even if you are not in isolation or quarantine, this is a time of uncertainty for everyone. A new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey revealed that more than 40% of U.S. adults experienced some form of “elevated” mental health condition associated with the coronavirus in late June.

You may feel depressed or anxious, or you may feel like you need to speak to a mental health professional. There are many resources available to our students, faculty, and staff through Student Affairs and the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program.
We will share more health and wellness news in the next edition.

COVID-19 RESOURCES

Students, faculty, and staff on the Coral Gables and Marine campuses who are experiencing possible symptoms consistent with, or who have been potentially exposed to, COVID-19 should contact the University’s COVID-19 hotline at 305-243-ONE-U, where UHealth physicians and providers are available to answer your questions and provide telemedicine services if needed.

Members of the Medical Campus should contact 305-243-8378.

For additional University of Miami COVID-19 information and resources, visit coronavirus.miami.edu.

If you are in distress or need counseling services, the Counseling Center provides mental health services through HIPAA-compliant teleconferencing platforms. Counselors are certified and available to help any time by calling 305-284-5511. Additional resources are also available by visiting counseling.studentaffairs.miami.edu.
 
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