Coronavirus Update

Savas Health is responding to the Novel Coronavirus outbreak.

During these trying and turbulent times, and the rapidly evolving situation concerning the Coronavirus pandemic, we want you to know that we are here to continue our exceptional care with unwavering resolve. Your health and safety have always been our top priority. We have been working closely with the CDC, federal, state and local agencies to implement the latest recommendations and guidelines. Until otherwise instructed, our clinics will remain open and able to see our patients. We have implemented additional health/safety protocols to ensure that social distancing is practiced at the clinics. So if you are scheduled for an appointment, please keep that appointment. If you are unable to make your appointment because of any number of reasons, your provider will reach out to you on the same day of your scheduled appointment for a TeleMedicine appointment to ensure that all of your medications will be continued. Check our website for the latest information as we continue to provide the most current updates.

The Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a new Coronavirus (CoV) that causes COVID-19, the 2019 Coronavirus Disease. This virus comes from a larger family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to the more severe diseases like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). Since the incubation period of this virus is 2-14 days after exposure, symptoms will start to appear during that time.

The top three reported symptoms of COVID-19 are: Fever, Cough and Dyspnea (shortness of breath). In a small population of patients, mainly those over age 65 and those with underlying chronic health conditions (Heart Disease, Lung Disease & Diabetes), these symptoms can develop into pneumonia, with chest tightness, chest pain and other more serious conditions. The symptoms that are not consistent with COVID-19 (reported in less than 5% of cases are: sore throat, sneezing and runny nose.

The virus originated as a non-human virus communicated in populations of bats. However, the first infections of humans originated in the Wuhan region of China, and were linked to a live animal market. Now, the virus spreads human to human via airborne transmission through respiratory droplets produced when a person infected with the virus coughs or sneezes. The transmission of the virus happens between people who are in close contact with one another (within 6 feet). That is why CDC recommends that infected patients be quarantined either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of transmitting the virus to others.

We have gone above and beyond the CDC guidelines for protection. We have trained our staff to screen patients for symptoms of acute respiratory illness. We have implemented strict policies for personal protection equipment and sanitation/cleaning practices. We have rearranged our waiting rooms, patient rooms and common areas to facilitate proper social distancing and we have created strategies to care for patients who have symptoms away from the clinics. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that all patients feel comfortable to keep their regularly scheduled appointments.

As stated earlier, we have implemented all the knowledge, technology, and training to conduct TeleMedicine so that you can get the care you need without leaving the comfort of your home. If you cannot make your scheduled appointment, your provider will contact you to ensure that all care, including your medications, can continue without lapse.

Absolutely, we are glad you asked. Information is critical to help avoid panic and stop stigma. The following resources will provide helpful information.

Stop the Spread of Germs — CDC resource on preventing the spread of respiratory diseases like COVID-19.
Manage Anxiety & Stress — CDC resource on managing mental health and coping during COVID-19 for children and caregivers.
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus — The Child Mind Institute offers suggestions and resources for talking to young people about COVID-19.
10 Things You Can Do to Manage COVID-19 at Home – See Video Below