I hope this message finds you well, despite the challenging times we’re all facing. I want to take a moment to update you on the recent COVID-19 developments here at Ascent and offer some guidance as we navigate through this current wave together.
Firstly, I want to share that our staff has been hit hard by the recent COVID outbreak. I tested positive a few weeks ago with very mild symptoms, and shortly after, Cynthia, Anjelick, and Leah also tested positive. As a result, we had to close our doors for a few days and were operating with a skeleton crew while everyone isolated at home. Fortunately, we’re all on the mend, but it’s been a tough few weeks.
I’ve also received numerous calls from patients asking about Paxlovid to treat their COVID infection. Unfortunately, I need to inform you that Paxlovid is no longer covered by the government, and the cost ranges from $1,400 to $1,600. Most insurance plans do not cover this medication either. If your symptoms are mild to moderate, it may not be worth the out-of-pocket expense for Paxlovid. Please weigh this carefully before deciding.
New Mexico, like much of the world, is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases this summer, with about 700 cases currently reported across the state. This pattern aligns with what we’ve seen globally, with COVID showing seasonal variations, typically spiking in both summer and winter. The current wave is driven by new variants, KP.2 and KP.3, which, while not drastically different from earlier strains like JN.1, are contributing to the rise in cases.
On a positive note, new COVID vaccines targeting these variants are expected to become available by early fall 2024. I strongly recommend receiving this updated vaccine as it should provide enhanced protection against the anticipated spike in infections during the fall and winter months.
Lastly, I want to remind everyone of the current guidelines from the New Mexico Department of Health for those who test positive for COVID-19:
Isolation Period: If you test positive, please isolate at home for at least 5 days, regardless of your vaccination status, and avoid contact with others as much as possible.
Post-Isolation Precautions: After 5 days, if you’re symptom-free or if your symptoms are improving and you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication), you can leave isolation. However, it’s recommended to continue wearing a mask around others for an additional 5 days.
Continued Symptoms: If you still have a fever or if your symptoms have not improved, continue to isolate until your fever is gone and you’re feeling better.
Contact Notification: If you test positive, please inform anyone you’ve been in close contact with recently so they can get tested and monitor for symptoms.
Masking and Social Distancing: NMDOH still advises wearing masks in indoor public spaces and maintaining social distancing, particularly where the risk of spreading COVID-19 is higher.
Thank you for your continued diligence and care during these trying times. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further guidance.
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