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'Working the front line is both a physically and emotionally challenging'
Who is mainly affected?
The most at-risk group is the elderly, over 70-year olds and those with comorbidities such as heart or lung disease (please refer to NHS website for the full list of ‘high risk’ conditions). However, we are seeing lots of young and healthy people being affected by this virus and require hospital care. Everyone at risk and no one is invincible.
What should I do if I have symptoms?
Most symptoms are mild and can be managed at home. Taking paracetamol for the fever may make you feel better. If symptoms of fever are not resolved by 7 days from onset, then people should call NHS 111 for advice. If you develop shortness of breath and difficulty breathing at any stage, please seek urgent medical attention. Please note the cough associated with COVID-19 can last for up to 6 weeks! This is quite normal for a viral cough, and you shouldn’t worry unless you feel short of breath, in which case seek medical attention.
What does “flatten the curve” mean?
Flatten the curve is a term that is being thrown around, and I’m not sure everyone fully understands the concept.
Essentially, if we were to continue living our usual lives, going to work, the gym, out to restaurants and pubs etc, the virus would be spread amongst the population at a much quicker rate than it is doing with social distancing measures.
This would result in an overwhelming number of people being admitted to hospital, many of which require intensive care support that would overwhelm NHS resources.
Flattening the curve is the concept, that with social distancing measures, we reduce the rate of spread of the virus and avoid the steep influx in cases presenting to hospital, reducing pressure on our precious NHS.
What is it like working in A&E and being a doctor in the NHS?
It is certainly a change from my previous job working as a GP in primary care. I work at a busy London hospital which is extremely well organised and well-staffed. They have accounted for the fact it’s expected 25% of healthcare professionals will be off work self-isolating at any one time, so I feel very grateful my department is prepared and I feel supported. I mainly see COVID patients coming through the doors into the emergency department, and the management mainly involves supporting their breathing with oxygen and ventilation if needed.
It’s a busy job which is physically exhausting, but there is a great sense of teamwork and comradery amongst the NHS during this pandemic and I am enjoying being part of the front line force!