I hear some COVID-19 vaccines are much more effective than others. Can I choose which one I get?
As with many COVID-19-related concerns, this is ever-evolving. Currently, people do not have the option of choosing which
vaccine they get. At some point, that might be possible based on certain retail pharmacies, for example, having a particular
vaccine in stock.
Regardless, experts say this is the most important bit of information to keep in mind: any vaccine authorized for use in the U.S. is highly effective in rendering COVID-19 into milder cases. In other words, all approved vaccines are equally effective at preventing the kind of serious illness that leads to hospitalization or death.
In many ways, the COVID-19 vaccine works a lot like the annual flu shot—it doesn’t completely rule out getting sick but greatly
reduces the chance of severity. This means at-risk populations are far less likely to develop serious or fatal complications.
The more people get vaccinated—by any one of the authorized options—the closer we come to achieving herd immunity and finally
putting an end to this pandemic.
The widely-held belief by the pediatric community is that the benefits of social engagement and interaction between children are
critical to healthy development in human beings. In many ways, children learn their morality and ethics through engagement with
other kids and the dynamics of play. Without the daily routine of school, children—across all ages—are being impacted in
incalculable ways, the scope of which will only be understood in retrospect.
In recent studies across the nation, data is revealing that in-class instruction is not a meaningful source of COVID-19
transmission—quite the opposite: more infections are being spread in neighboring communities than they are inside the
classroom. These facts are leading many experts to agree that a return to school might be the right choice after all.
When all children finally return, there will likely be an increase in the transmission of infectious illness. Masks and social
distancing will mitigate some of that, but parents can expect kids to spread some illness and should be ready to address a range
of primary care concerns. If your child is experiencing symptoms, whether it seems to be a simple cold or you’re worried it’s
COVID-19, you can always start an on-demand visit with 98point6. Our physicians can help assess your particular situation and
offer guidance around next steps, including testing.
Data confirms that with the proper precautions, classrooms are among the safest places in which to be. In rural Wisconsin schools, where mask-wearing is high, incidence of COVID-19 among students and staff has been significantly lower than in the adjoining communities: only 3.7% of the 191 positive cases were linked to in-school spread.
Is there a way in which you can help your child’s school as it prepares to reopen? Do teachers need hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes or maybe even an air filtration system for the classroom? Organizing with other parents to raise funds for much-needed supplies can help you gain a greater sense of control while helping students–and teachers—feel more secure.
Due to the months of isolation and masks, we’re all likely to have less immunity to viruses and colds this year—and may be more likely to get sick as we rebuild natural protection. This is because each time we are exposed to a virus, our immune system builds a memory of that virus and protects us when re-exposed. Limited exposure, therefore, means a measure of decreased immunity. Try these tips from Dr. Kharbat to help enhance immune function.
Our doctors are here when you need us.
At 98point6, we make it easy to get immediate care for many of your most common questions and concerns. Here, Dr. Berley
weighs in on several frequently seen conditions in our virtual clinic—and how convenient and prompt treatment gets you on the
path to better health.
“Not only are these all extremely common conditions in primary care, they are all easily addressed in a virtual visit.”
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
As you can see in our Cheat Sheet, left untreated, UTIs can cause kidney infections and other problems with the urinary tract, so it’s always a good idea to connect with a physician sooner rather than later.
Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)
It’s tempting to seek a prescription for antibiotics, especially if that’s how you’ve addressed the condition in the past. However, most URIs are self-limited and last about 1.5 weeks. Start a visit—we’ll help you manage your symptoms and discuss whether antibiotics are the best course of action.
Low back pain
Low back pain is typically caused by muscle strain. Most patients I see in the virtual clinic are simply seeking relief and reassurance. We can assess if what you’re experiencing is serious and requires in-person care. If not, we can offer guidance on over-the-counter pain management.
Cold sores
Getting a prescription at the first signs of a cold sore will help it go away faster. Because 98point6 is available on-demand via text-based messaging, you can get that prescription while you’re in a meeting, out running errands or cooking dinner.
Headaches
Pain in the head can be scary; of course patients come to us looking for peace of mind as well as treatment of symptoms. We’re able to help assess if what you’re feeling is a typical headache vs. a migraine vs. a sinus headache, and whether you should follow up with in-person care or a specialist. If you’re a migraine sufferer, we can also assist with medication management and refills.
Rashes
The option of being able to send a photo makes rashes an ideal thing to manage via virtual care. We can recognize and diagnose, and offer many over-the-counter and prescription treatments. And it’s just as easy to follow up if the condition isn’t improving!
Acne
This is another condition that can often be so easily managed without having to schedule an in-person doctor visit. Whether treatment is needed for your teenager or yourself, we can work with you to find the best solution, even if it takes some time to find the best option.
We’re serious about our commitment to providing you with the most up-to-date, credible information so you can feel empowered in your decision-making—and social sharing. This resource was put together with guidance from 98point6 board-certified physicians, as well as the latest findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To learn more, visit:
https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/herd-immunity-lockdowns-and-covid-19#:~:text=Herd%20immunity%20is%20achieved%20by,without%20making%20us%20sick
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/parent-checklist.html
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7004e3.htm?s_cid=mm7004e3_w
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/urinary/conditioninfo/causes
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/urinary-tract-infections-utis
https://youngmenshealthsite.org/guides/urinary-tract-infection/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-prevent-uti
https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/your-guide-urinary-tract-infections
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9135-urinary-tract-infections
Q: It seems like half the people I work with are on some kind of trendy diet or another. Some involve taking lots of supplements with meals, others revolve around costly powders and shakes. What should I be on the lookout for in terms of safety?
Q: Having a headache can put a stop to my day. At what point should I be concerned that there is a larger underlying issue?
>Q: I’ve resolved to live healthier in 2020 but I have a long way to go and don’t know where to start. What are the most important first steps? How do I set myself up for success in a way that fits my lifestyle and job?
Whether your child has a fever or you’re worried about that dizziness you’ve been feeling, 98point6 is available 24/7 to you and your eligible family members ages 1 and older. With access to on-demand primary care via a mobile app, care is always at your fingertips.