Video: A physician’s insights into our new way of life

Massachusetts, like many states across the country, has ordered public and private schools to close, limited restaurants to only takeout and delivery, ordered non-essential businesses to operate only remotely, and banned public gatherings of more than 10 people, including in gyms, theaters and churches. All residents are urged to stay home when possible.

Why?

“The coronavirus has now reached the pandemic stage, meaning worldwide spread has occurred and will continue unless we all take action,” says Dr. Katherine Dallow, vice president of clinical programs and strategy at the not-for-profit Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. “There is no natural human immunity, no vaccine and no antiviral treatment, as yet. It is possible to slow the infection rate, however -- which will protect our hospitals from being overwhelmed by waves of cases that infect health care workers and prevent other patients from getting the care they need. And that’s where you come in.“

Keeping a distance from others means those who have the infection can’t pass it on and those who don’t have it can’t catch it. Remember, the virus can be spread by people who show no signs of being sick. The only way to prevent its spread is by making it impossible for the virus to jump from person to person.

That’s why it’s so important to limit the use of public transportation, cancel playdates for kids, not shake hands, and stay at least six feet away from other people in places you may be required to go, such as grocery stores or pharmacies.

It is literally a life-saving step, particularly for those who are most vulnerable to this virus, like seniors and health care workers.

Watch Dr. Dallow here

Video transcript

^{PHOTO & VIDEO OF Dr. KATHERINE DALLOW BY MIKE GRIMMETT}