Webinar recorded on Thursday, January 7, 2021
Before long, we’ll be at the 2 year mark in dealing with COVID-19 and we will see dramatic changes in 2021. With the advent of vaccines, we expect to experience our “next normal” as we move through the New Year. Join us for an examination of the McKinsey report and other information as we look forward to 2021.
Speakers:
- Dr. Purvi Parikh
- Tonya Winders
Resource:
CE is not available for this webinar.
Questions and Answers from the Webinar
What to expect from COVID-19 in 2021? In this webinar, Allergy & Asthma Network President and CEO Tonya Winders and board-certified allergist Purvi Parikh, MD discussed COVID-19 health inequities, the corporate response, vaccination efforts, COVID long-haulers and the impact on schools.
What are factors contributing to COVID-19 inequities?
People in certain racial and ethnic groups (African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans) are at high risk of getting sick and dying from COVID-19. The likelihood of dying from COVID-19 is increased in people who are:
- living in poverty
- living in unstable housing
- unemployed
- food insecure
- incarcerated
- facing significant neighborhood violence or stress
How are corporations and businesses reacting to COVID-19 pandemic?
Many corporations and organizations are changing the way they do business. Employers are expanding remote working for employees and turning more to online sales. Many have also accelerated the use of advanced technology as well.
What is the status of the COVID-19 vaccine?
As of January 2021, two COVID-18 vaccines are available: Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna. Several other vaccines are in the pipeline. Studies show both vaccines provide longer and better immunity to COVID-19 than those protected due to having the virus.
The vaccines come in two doses spread a few weeks apart. They are not interchangeable, so it is important for people to receive the same vaccine for both doses.
It remains uncertain if the vaccine prevents those vaccinated from carrying the disease. Prevention is still critical. Wear a face mask, maintain social distancing and wash your hands often.
Severe allergic reactions to the vaccine are very rare. People with a history of food, insect venom, oral medications, environmental or latex allergies can get the vaccine. If you have a history of anaphylaxis to ingredients of either vaccine, then it’s recommended you not receive the vaccine.
What are COVID-19 long-haulers and what are symptoms to watch for?
COVID-19 long-haulers are people who continue to experience symptoms months after infection. This can happen to anyone, but it is more common in older people or in those with other medical problems.
Some symptoms that linger include:
- muscle pain or headache
- fast or pounding heartbeat
- loss of smell or taste
- memory loss
- trouble concentrating
- sleep problems
- rash or hair loss
COVID-19 may cause long-term damage to organs including the lungs, heart or brain. It can cause blood clotting issues, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. It may damage the kidneys and liver.
COVID-19 may also impact mental health. It can cause depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress syndrome, and chronic fatigue. Most people recover with no long-lasting symptoms, but for some, symptoms linger.
What is the impact of COVID-19 on schools and students?
The impact of COVID-19 on schools, students and parents is an ongoing challenge. How schools handle reopening often varies state to state and even county to county.
Schoolchildren are experiencing rising rates of anxiety. On average, students are losing 5-9 months of learning. Children of color are disproportionately affected, losing 6-12 months of learning.
In order for schools to safely reopen or remain open, it is essential they adopt rigorous health and safety protocols to protect students and staff. Schools must implement policy changes to further support the health of all students.
As we continue into 2021, please remember the 3 Ws – Wash your hands often, Watch your distance and Wear a mask!
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