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(Toms River) – One of the facts public health officials have discovered regarding the coronavirus is which people are the most at risk of getting seriously sick and who isn’t. As is the case with many viruses,’ older adults or individuals with a strong immune system have the best ability to fight off many illnesses. Staying fit or working your way into better shape can help residents in the long run.
“What we know right now about COVID-19 is that the young and healthy are fighting off coronavirus with better results than high-risk individuals who are older or may have underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, and cancer,” advises Daniel Regenye, OCHD Public Health Coordinator. “It’s a good time to encourage people that a few minor changes including nutrition and exercise can go a long way to protect yourself and boost your immune system to better fight off many illnesses – including the flu.”
“The weather is starting to turn and Spring is almost here so it’s time to get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air and exercise,” adds Ocean County Freeholder Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. Exercise can help build healthy bodies that are stronger and better able to battle a virus. It’s never too late to start an exercise program.”
Public Health experts are still searching for a vaccine but there is nothing close to being ready in the very near future. Even the warmth and humidity of Spring and Summer aren’t assuring scientists that it may help stop the spread of COVID-19. So with so many things still unclear, one thing for sure is that a healthy body is your best front-line protection.
“The risk of getting sick as a result of coronavirus is possible but still low at this time. Do the things you can control and don’t stress about the things you can’t. Stay calm and take a little walk or do a little exercise outdoors to reduce anxiety and stress. Healthy foods are packed with powerful nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc and iron that are a big benefit to a strong immune system.”
If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because of a serious long-term health problem, then it’s extra important for you to take extra precautions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease.
“Right now our older adult population should prepare the same way as everyone else is and practice proper hand and respiratory hygiene. But be ready for any long-term concerns should you or a family member gets sick. Have a 30-day supply of non-perishables and other supplies such as extra medicine or oxygen. Stay in touch with family and loved ones by email or phone and if you feel like you’re developing symptoms please call your doctor as soon as possible,” says Ocean County Freeholder Director Joesph H. Vicari, Chairman, Senior Services and County Operations.
“It doesn’t matter what your age, if your healthy enough to exercise then why not do what you can to strengthen your body and keep your immunity healthy to fight off virus’ that can make you sick or lead to other health issues,” adds Regenye. “It’s also advisable that residents consult their physician when starting an exercise plan.”
For more information about COVID-19 and how to best prepare yourself and family please visit the websites below.
Resources
CDC Coronavirus Page – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html
New Jersey Department of Health Coronavirus Page – https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/ncov.shtml
CDC Share Facts not Fear – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/share-facts-stop-fear.html
Coronavirus questions are being handled by the health experts at the NJ Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Ocean County Health Department COVID-19 Answer Line is 732-341- Ext. 7411
