November 16, 2020
WE ARE NOT DONE WITH COVID YET!!!

The number of Covid infections in NJ (and most of the US) continues to rise. Admissions to Overlook and other hospitals has been increasing steadily, including Intensive Care.
We ALL need to remain especially vigilant now. Covid isolation/fatigue is setting in, and we all desperately want to get back to normal life. The Holidays are soon, but we cannot ignore the virus. All official recommendations are to limit family gatherings as much as possible.
Do not let your guard down! This virus will be with us for the foreseeable future. It is as important as ever to continue to :
  • WEAR A MASK
  • SOCIALLY DISTANCE, AT LEAST 6 FEET
  • WASH HANDS
WHAT SYMPTOMS DO I NEED TO WATCH FOR?
The symptoms of covid overlap with flu, a bad cold, sinus infections, etc. This makes diagnosis that much more challenging. Symptoms that may be a Covid infection:
  • persistent cough
  • shortness of breath
  • fever
  • headache
  • loss of sense of smell or taste
  • diarrhea
  • fatigue
For more information form the CDC on the difference between the flu and covid click here.

Covid Vaccine Update

The vaccine that Pfizer is developing does appear to have a very good success rate. Other companies have vaccines in the pipeline as well. However, it will be a long while until we can all receive the vaccine; so, until then we all must continue to be vigilant.
Please refer back to the NJ Covid vaccine website.

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A video update on Covid from Dr Zukoff
Dog Wearing Mask
WEAR A MASK ANY TIME YOU ARE NEAR OTHERS, ESPECIALLY INDOORS.
WEAR IT CORRECTLY!
TESTING FAQ'S
Should I get tested?
  • You should be tested for Covid if you have symptoms (see above) or have been exposed to someone with a Covid infection (contact tracing)
How do I get tested?
What is the difference between available tests?
  • There are 2 different tests, both done via a nasal swab. The rapid test gives a result within 15 minutes (antigen test), but has a moderately high false negative rate. That means if the test is negative, there is still a 50% chance you might have the virus. The other test, PCR, is more accurate, but can take at least 2-3 days to get the result. For more information about testing, the FDA site is very helpful.
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Paul B. Zukoff, MD, FACP
James J. Hakim, MD, FACP
Samantha Anderson, PA-C