​​​By the time you read this, you may or may not have contracted the Coronavirus. Nevertheless, the information I am sharing can create more awareness to help you respond sooner rather than later to your flu symptoms.

These are symptoms that you are familiar with because they generally occur during winter or the change of season and you can almost prescribe to the doctor what medication works effectively to cure you.

Here’s the thing though, what may appear to be your seasonal flu with the sore throat, itchy ears, congested nose and coughing, tonsillitis or the onset of asthma may actually be Covid-19. Yes, the Delta variant to be exact.

Though I have not had the infection, touch wood because I observe and insist that my family and people around me strictly follow Covid-19 protocols, it may yet happen.

I’d like to believe that I am fairly intelligent. My research on Covid-19, which is not scientific I must hastily add but based on medical and scientific information by experts comes down to this: The current Delta Covid-19 is extremely dangerous and smart.  It is continually evolving to avoid immediate detection. It is dangerous because it affects your respiratory tract. Your lungs are critical to breathing. We all know but we take it for granted.

When this virus pounces on your lungs, it creates complications in other parts of your body, be it your brain, liver or heart. It exacerbates whatever chronic disease you may have like diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid or cancer. Your immune system accordingly reacts to this foreign invasion and produces antibodies to defend itself, all of which takes a toll on your body.

So time is of the essence. The minute you feel unwell, get tested for Covid-19. I cannot over emphasize this. Do not for a second believe that you can self-medicate or see it through. Get tested immediately and if it comes out negative, do not be satisfied with those results, and take a second test. The idea is to know and get the proper treatment as soon as possible to almost nip it in the bud and avoid hospitalisation.

Ivermectin is being touted as a cure for Covid-19 but experts are divided on this issue. I am skeptical because there is no conclusive evidence from what I have read and you most likely to pass some worms or parasites if you ingest it. It may indeed be of use for other conditions, but as the world rushes to vaccinate and impose lockdowns, why would you want to believe in Ivermectin at this point?

We have to be alert to any flu-like symptoms and treat them quickly, including getting tested. It is critical we all conduct ourselves responsibly and observe the Covid-19 protocols daily. Now that the vaccine is available, get the jab. Do not hesitate, do not be afraid, and do not listen to what is said on social media. Listen to what the government is telling you.

The vaccine is safe and as is with any vaccination, there may be mild to moderate symptoms of pain, nausea and swelling. You are generally advised to immediately seek medical assistance if you experience severe symptoms.

In the meantime, continue to wear your mask, keep a safe distance, wash your hands regularly, sanitise and avoid socialising. Experts advise against resuming heavy exercise or work after isolating because the body needs to recover and this may take months depending on the severity of your infection. It’s in your best interest to listen to experts.

Written by Virgil James
03/08/2021