“It’s no surprise that many people are anxious about returning to ‘normal’ after living through a yearlong global pandemic that is still ongoing,” says Stacey Doumas, M.D., a psychiatrist with Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune. “Leaving what has been your safe zone will be uncomfortable, and that’s OK. However, if your anxiety is negatively impacting your quality of life, that’s when you should consider reaching out to a mental health professional.”

Even if the transition back into society may be nerve-wracking, you might be ready to get back to spending time with your friends and family. Here are some steps you can take to make yourself more comfortable as you slowly but safely get back to life.

Set Boundaries: It’s OK to invite only fully vaccinated people into your home or only want to spend time with friends and family who have received their vaccine. Don’t be afraid to let people know that while you’re happy to see them, you’re still uncomfortable giving hugs and handshakes. While you’re out and about, continue to keep a safe social distance from strangers and mask when needed.

Continue to Wear a Mask When Indoors: Remember to follow state and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines about mask-wearing. Masks continue to be an effective way to protect yourself and others from airborne bacteria and infections.

Keep Numbers Smaller: Rather than plan large gatherings, look for opportunities to spend time outdoors if possible—or indoors with masks—with smaller groups of family and friends.

Be Patient with Yourself: Ease your way back into social situations. There’s no need to fill your calendar up with plans; you can take your time. Also, don’t force yourself to go out if you’re truly not ready yet. The past year has been traumatic for everyone. Give yourself some grace— your friends and family will understand.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Stacey Doumas, M.D. To make an appointment with Dr. Doumas or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Contact a mental health provider if you’re having trouble dealing with anxiety
• What Can You Do After You’re Fully Vaccinated Against COVID?
• How to Manage Anxiety Around Coronavirus

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post Socializing After the Vaccine: How to Do It Safely appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

Laurie Jacobs, M.D., director of the Hackensack Meridian COVID Recovery Clinic, has examined common COVID-19 myths, to see if there’s any truth behind the claims.

Claim: COVID-19 vaccines will give you COVID-19.

FALSE

None of the COVID-19 vaccines currently in development in the U.S. use the live virus that causes COVID-19. Some vaccines use an inactivated virus or viral vector, while others use new mRNA technology. The goal for each of the vaccines in development is to teach our immune system to recognize and fight off the virus that causes COVID-19.

Claim: You should get vaccinated even if you already had COVID-19.

TRUE

Experts do not know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. The immunity someone gains from having an infection is called natural immunity. Some early studies suggest natural immunity may not last long enough and varies from person to person based on their response to the virus.

One study from the CDC revealed that those who were unvaccinated and infected with COVID, were more than two times as likely to get COVID again, in comparison to someone who is fully vaccinated.

If you’ve previously been infected, the FDA has advised to wait until 90 days following your initial infection before receiving the vaccine.

The severe health risks associated with COVID-19 are significant across all ages, and as re-infection with COVID-19 is possible, you should consider getting a COVID-19 vaccine even if you’ve been sick with COVID-19 in the past. It is also currently unknown whether reinfections are associated with post-COVID syndromes, also known as “Long COVID.”

Claim: There are questionable ingredients in COVID-19 vaccines, including microchips or magnets.

FALSE

The active ingredient in the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines is mRNA, or messenger ribonucleic acid, molecules which affect the way that the body responds to immune system triggers.

The active ingredient in the Johnson & Johnson Janssen vaccine is a modified version of a harmless virus that delivers information about the genetic makeup of the novel coronavirus to cells in the body, so that the body can launch an immune response, creating protective antibodies against the virus.

COVID-19 vaccines also contain inactive ingredients, such as salts and acids, like other vaccines do. There are no metals or magnetic substances in the vaccines. There also aren’t any microchips or tracking technology. For details about exactly what’s in each vaccine, read more.

Claim: 5G technology spreads COVID-19.

FALSE

COVID-19 doesn’t spread through radio waves transmitted by cell phone towers; it passes from person to person, when someone coughs or exhales tiny droplets containing the virus and the particles reach the eyes, nose or mouth of another individual. Viruses can’t be transmitted through telecommunications networks.

Claim: People who get COVID-19 vaccines can still get COVID-19.

TRUE

COVID-19 vaccines offer protection against severe COVID-19 illness, but getting vaccinated does not 100 percent guarantee that someone will not get infected. In some instances, fully vaccinated people have tested positive for COVID-19, and they sometimes become sick. However, vaccinated people often have milder cases of COVID-19, which reduces their risk of being hospitalized or dying. The majority of people who are hospitalized and dying from COVID-19 today are unvaccinated.

CLAIM: Receiving an mRNA vaccine will alter your DNA.

FALSE

mRNA stands for messenger ribonucleic acid and can generally be described as instructions for your body on how to make a protein or even just a piece of a protein. mRNA is not able to alter or modify a person’s genetic makeup, or DNA. The mRNA from a COVID-19 vaccine never enters the nucleus of the cell, which is where our DNA is kept. Instead, COVID-19 vaccines that use mRNA work with the body’s natural defenses to safely develop protection (immunity) to the disease. Learn more from the CDC about how COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work.

Claim: COVID-19 or COVID-19 vaccines may affect someone’s menstrual cycle.

UNCLEAR

Some research suggests that some women who became ill with COVID-19 temporarily experienced changes to their menstrual cycles. Additionally, some women who received the COVID-19 vaccine reported that they experienced changes to their menstrual cycle. However, many factors which have been prevalent during the pandemic may cause someone to have irregular periods, including exposure to stress and getting more or less exercise than usual. More research is needed to determine whether COVID-19 or the COVID-19 vaccines directly affect the menstrual cycle.

Claim: COVID-19 vaccines can impair your fertility.

FALSE

No vaccines cause infertility, including COVID-19 vaccines. The vaccines also don’t have an effect on pregnancy. However, COVID-19 itself may cause serious health complications in pregnant women.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all people aged 12 and older get COVID-19 vaccines, including pregnant women and people of childbearing age, because the vaccines protect people’s health without impacting their fertility status.

Claim: After getting a COVID-19 vaccine, you’ll test positive for COVID-19.

FALSE

People can’t test positive for COVID-19 after getting vaccinated, because the vaccines don’t contain live virus. Anyone who tests positive has been exposed to COVID-19 through other means.

It’s possible to test positive for COVID-19 antibodies which are directed against the “spike protein” after getting vaccinated, which are different than the antibody test and the antigen used for testing positive for illness. Having antibodies is a sign that you’re protected against the virus.

Claim: People who get COVID-19 vaccines “shed” the virus afterwards.

FALSE

It’s only possible to shed a virus if you have the virus in your system. Vaccinated people don’t have the ability to shed viral particles because COVID-19 vaccines don’t contain live COVID-19 virus.

People who are sick with COVID-19 may shed viral particles, which is why individuals who have the virus should isolate themselves at home.

Claim: Ivermectin should be used to prevent and treat COVID-19.

FALSE

Ivermectin is not approved or authorized by the FDA for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19.

Some studies have been conducted to evaluate the drug’s efficacy against COVID-19, however the data has been inconsistent, inconclusive and too small to be considered high quality. There is no reliable evidence that ivermectin should be used for COVID-19.

CLAIM: One COVID-19 vaccine is better than the other.

FALSE

All three COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting against the virus. Here’s a comparison:

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Laurie Jacobs, M.D.
• To make an appointment with a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• 3 Reasons Not to Use Ivermectin for COVID-19

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post COVID-19 Myths 3.0 appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

Mask-wearing to protect against seasonal flu should work together with other measures, including vaccination, hand-washing, social-distancing and quarantining when you feel sick, says Ali Jaffry, M.D., infectious disease specialist at Palisades Medical Center.

Best Way to Prevent the Flu 

Thankfully, there is a highly effective vaccine for the seasonal flu, which is the most effective line of defense against the virus. Good hand hygiene and avoiding people who are symptomatic are also essential to staying healthy.

“Masks certainly save lives when it comes to COVID-19, especially with current and future variants,” says Nazar Raoof, M.D., chair of infectious disease at Raritan Bay Medical Center. “But when it comes to the flu season, a mask alone is not good enough to protect yourself. The most effective way to protect yourself from the flu every season is to get an annual flu vaccine.”

Influenza is spread through droplets, which can travel through the air and be inhaled or land on surfaces and be transferred to the eyes, nose and mouth by touch. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) only recommends that those working in health care settings wear masks specifically for protection against the flu.

If You Are Sick

It’s important to understand that wearing a mask is not a substitute for quarantining if you are sick. “Along with getting vaccinated and hand-washing, wearing a mask can be a preventive measure, but if you are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath, a mask is not effective enough to stop you from infecting others,” says Pankaj Doshi, M.D., infectious disease specialist at Bayshore Medical Center. “Anyone who feels sick should stay home and seek medical help if they have shortness of breath or a fever of 100.3 degrees or higher.”,

People who cannot receive a flu vaccine due to a life-threatening allergy or history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome should speak with their doctor about the most effective prevention strategy for their unique health concerns.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our sources: Nazar Raoof, M.D., Pankaj Doshi, M.D. and Ali Jaffry, M.D. To make an appointment with a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Find a doctor near you
• When should you get your flu shot?
• 12 facts you probably didn’t know about the flu

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post Should I Wear a Mask During Flu Season? appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

Infectious disease expert, Bindu Balani, M.D., shares the ins and outs of ivermectin and why it should not be used for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19.

What is ivermectin? 

Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic drug that is often used to treat or prevent parasites in animals and humans.

Across the U.S. there are reports of people using ivermectin prescribed for horses to try and prevent or treat COVID-19.

Is ivermectin approved for use in humans?

Ivermectin can be prescribed to humans in tablet form to treat conditions caused by parasitic worms, as well as in a topical form to treat external parasites like lice.

Reports from the FDA are showing people ingesting ivermectin doses in a paste form that is designated for horses, as well as doctors even prescribing the medication for COVID-19.

In a typical pre-pandemic setting, there are about 3,600 prescriptions filled for ivermectin in a year. From early July and August, the CDC reported over 88,000 prescriptions dispensed – that is a 2,344% increase.

“The stark increase in prescriptions for ivermectin is not a coincidence – this is an ‘off-label’ use of the drug. While ivermectin is approved for use in parasitic conditions, there has been no evidence or approval for use against COVID-19,” shares Dr. Balani.

Can ivermectin be used to treat COVID-19? 

No, ivermectin is not approved or authorized by the FDA for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19.

You are not a horse. You are not a cow. Seriously, y’all. Stop it. https://t.co/TWb75xYEY4

— U.S. FDA (@US_FDA) August 21, 2021

Some studies have been conducted to evaluate the drug’s efficacy against COVID-19, however the data has been inconsistent, inconclusive and too small to be considered high quality. There is no reliable evidence that ivermectin should be used for COVID-19.

What happens if you take ivermectin? 

The side effects of ivermectin overdose can include:

• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
• Confusion, hallucinations, seizures, coma and death

To sum up, here are three reasons why you should not use ivermectin to try to prevent COVID-19:

• Ivermectin is not proven to be effective for COVID-19.
• Using ivermectin not as it was intended can cause a variety of health risks, even death.
• You are not a horse or a cow and a large dose of ivermectin is highly toxic.

The COVID-19 vaccines are FDA approved and proven to be effective against COVID. 

“Instead of listening to conspiracies online, please follow the data. The COVID-19 vaccines have all been thoroughly tested and are proven to be effective. Getting vaccinated can help protect you against this deadly virus,” concludes Dr. Balani.

Next Steps & Resources: 

• Meet our source: Bindu Balani, M.D.

• To make an appointment with Dr. Balani or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.

• Get your COVID-19 vaccine – schedule now.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post 3 Reasons Not to Use Ivermectin for COVID-19 appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

COVID-19 booster shots are now being offered.

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized the use of a booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines for those who are:

• Over the age of 65
• 18-64 years of age with
  • increased risk due to underlying medical conditions which can lead to severe COVID-19, or
  • Occupational or institutional exposure to COVID that puts them at high risk

This booster is to be given at least six months after the completion of your first two doses.

Booster shots for those 18 and older who received the one shot regimen of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are recommended at least two months after their initial shot.

That’s a lot to take in, so what does all this mean?

We connected with Hackensack Meridian Health’s chief physician executive, Daniel Varga, M.D., to answer all your questions about the COVID-19 booster shot.

Q: Who is eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?

A: “Those who are over the age of 65 are eligible, as well as those who are at an increased risk due to exposure or illness,” shares Dr. Varga. According to the CDC, those who have an underlying medical condition are eligible for a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot, this includes:

• Cancer
• Chronic kidney disease
• Chronic lung disease
• Dementia or a neurological condition
• Diabetes
• Down syndrome
• Heart conditions
• HIV
• Immunocompromised conditions
• Liver disease
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Sickle cell disease
• Smoking
• Transplants
• Strokes

Additionally, anyone 18 and older who received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine should get a booster shot at least 2 months after their initial dose.

Q: What does “occupational or institutional exposure” mean?

A: “Occupational or institutional exposure” are those who are frequently exposed to the COVID-19 virus due to the nature of their work, for example, health care workers can be continually exposed.

Common instances where exposure may be high includes:

• Frontline and non-frontline health care workers
• First responders and police officers
• Teachers and day care staff
• Home caregivers for elderly or immunocompromised individuals
• Grocery store employees
• Individuals living or working in homeless shelters or prisons

Q: Why do you need a COVID booster shot?

A: It is currently unknown how long immune protection lasts from the vaccines. Developed antibodies may decrease over time, weakening your protection against COVID and emerging variants; a booster shot will help reinvigorate that protection.

Q: How does a booster shot differ from a third shot for the immunocompromised? 

A: The main differences between the third shot and booster shot are related to who is eligible to get each and timing. The FDA and CDC authorized the use of a third dose of the mRNA (Pfizer or Moderna) COVID-19 vaccine for the immunocompromised only. This third shot can be given as early as 28 days after the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine (vs 6 months for the booster). There is no current recommendation for a third dose for those who received the J&J vaccine.

Those with compromised immune systems may not develop the same amount of protection as compared to those who are not immunocompromised – the third dose is to help bolster their protection.

The booster shot is given to those who’s protection may have decreased over time.

Q: Does this mean the vaccine isn’t effective?

No. Data collected has shown that protection against infection may decrease over time, however the vaccine remains very effective in preventing hospitalizations and death. As time passes, you may be more susceptible to catching COVID-19, but if you’re vaccinated your symptoms are expected to be less severe.

Q: Can I ‘mix and match’ my vaccines?

A: You can now get a COVID-19 booster shot that is different from the one you initially received. This announcement followed the release of a study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which showed that “mixing and matching” COVID-19 vaccines was both safe and effective.

“As the CDC and FDA continue to share recommendations, it can be confusing or overwhelming, but remember your health care provider is always there to help you,” recommends Dr. Varga.

“If you’re having a hard time understanding your eligibility, or are concerned about receiving the vaccine, talk to your doctor and they will help you navigate a decision that’s right for you.”

Next Steps & Resources: 

• Clinical Contributor: Daniel Varga, chief physician executive at Hackensack Meridian Health
• To make an appointment with a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Get your COVID-19 vaccine – schedule now.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post Should You Get a COVID Booster Shot? Our Doctor Explains appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

“We’re seeing a lot of patients with symptoms of palpitations or an increase in heart rate with minimal activity, where prior to COVID, they weren’t having any of these symptoms,” says Riple Hansalia, M.D., a cardiac electrophysiologist at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. “That’s been pretty common in our practice, nationally and worldwide.”

Signs of Concern

Contact your doctor if you have had COVID-19 and are experiencing any of the following:

• Unusual fatigue
• Feeling your heart beat rapidly or irregularly
• Dizziness or light-headedness, especially upon standing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort

What Will Your Doctor Do?

These symptoms can be caused by simple dehydration or by being out of shape after battling COVID-19. But your doctor will want to evaluate any new heart symptoms that you’re experiencing.

This evaluation could include:

• A clinical exam, checking for dehydration among other things
• Wearing a portable electrocardiogram for 24 hours to monitor your heart rate and rhythm
• An echocardiogram—an ultrasound of your heart—to look for cardiac damage
• Taking your orthostatic blood pressure, which means checking your blood pressure in a lying, sitting and standing position

What Is Treatment Like?

“Treatment is typically the same post-COVID as if they didn’t have COVID-19. Even with these symptoms, we find that most patients recover back to a normal state after some time and without any type of treatment,” says Dr. Hansalia.

But there are indications that some post-COVID patients are experiencing serious complications such as atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heart rhythm that can lead to blood clots, stroke or heart failure. “We’ve found atrial fibrillation to be a bit more common after COVID-19 infection, and we believe it’s from the inflammatory state that COVID-19 causes,” says Dr. Hansalia.

Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS), which is when a person’s heart rate increases abruptly after standing, has also been seen in post-COVID patients.

These complications can occur in anyone in the post-COVID recovery phase but are more common in patients who had a myocardial or heart injury while infected with COVID-19 or in patients with pre-existing conditions.

It’s understandable to want to get back to normal life as soon as possible after a COVID-19 diagnosis, but check with your doctor if you notice any worrying symptoms, especially ones that are new to you.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Riple Hansalia, M.D. To make an appointment with Dr. Hansalia or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn more about comprehensive cardiac care close to home
• Contact our COVID Recovery Center if you’re experiencing long-haul COVID symptoms.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post Does COVID-19 Cause Heart Rate Issues? appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

What COVID variant is the most common?

The most prevalent COVID-19 variant depends on where you live and when you’re asking, as the virus is constantly evolving.

In the U.S., the Alpha variant was the most common earlier in the pandemic, and has since been overthrown by the Delta variant.

“Speaking to NJ, in the last month and half we’ve seen a major switch from Alpha being the most predominant in February and March, to almost being completely replaced by the Delta variant,” shares Barry Kreiswirth, Ph.D., a microbiologist at Hackensack Meridian Health’s Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI).

There are other variants of COVID-19 including Beta, Gamma and Lambda, all of which are closely watched by organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization and at CDI.

Why are there multiple COVID-19 variants?

Viruses mutate, which leads to new variants; the COVID-19 virus will continue to change.

“When a virus enters the body, it’s goal is to enter the cells and replicate itself,” adds Dr. Kreiswirth. “During replication, it has the opportunity to mutate – these changes can strengthen or weaken a virus.”

For example, a change can mean the variant is more easily spread, or more resistant to vaccines and treatment.

“Each variant has a change in the spike protein – there can be other genetic changes as well, but we focus on the spike protein because it’s directly related to transmissibility. The spike protein is located on the outside of the virus and is how the virus attaches to the cells,” shares Dr. Kreiswirth.

Is the Delta variant more transmissible?

Yes, the Delta variant is more transmissible, and almost twice as contagious as previous strains, according to the CDC.

“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, and to stop the spread of the virus,” advises Dr. Kreiswirth. “When the population of vaccinated people rises, the virus then needs to be more transmissible to find a host.”

“It’s a numbers game — Delta is king right now because it’s more transmissible and replicates better than the other variants.”

Does testing reveal which variant you have?

A PCR or a rapid COVID-19 test will not indicate which variant of COVID-19 you have, it will only confirm a positive or negative result. However, researchers are tracking the virus to follow which variants are present and any new variants to be concerned about.

Are symptoms or recovery time different for each variant?

“Your recovery time and symptoms depend more so on your vaccination status, overall health and treatments administered, rather than the type of variant you’re infected with,” shares Dr. Kreiswirth.

The COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson have all proven to be effective against preventing serious illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19.

Are children more at risk for a particular variant?

The FDA has not yet provided emergency use authorization (EUA) of the vaccine for children under 12 years of age, and since the Delta variant is highly transmissible, it does make children more vulnerable.

“The virus’s goal is to find a host, and unfortunately since there’s no EUA for the vaccine for younger children yet, that itself is another risk factor,” adds Dr. Kreiswirth. “The best thing we can do for our children is to get vaccinated as adults, and continue to wear masks so that we can stop the spread.”

Is the vaccine more effective towards a particular variant?

“The good news is that no variant right now has proved to be vaccine resistant. But the Delta variant is spreading faster than the Alpha did; it is imperative that anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated, do so,” concludes Dr. Kreiswirth.

Next Steps & Resources: 

• Meet our source: Barry Kreiswirth, Ph.D.
• To make an appointment with a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Get your COVID-19 vaccine – schedule now.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post COVID-19 Variants – What You Need To Know appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

“We know schools are more than just a place for kids to learn. School also supports kids’ physical, social and emotional health,” says Valerie Niketakis-Wujciak, M.D. “At the same time, COVID-19 is still top of mind for many parents. Fortunately, there are steps we can take as parents to make sure our kids are learning in the classroom safely this year.”

For starters, parents can review the guidelines the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) issued in July 2021 for preventing the spread of COVID-19 in Kindergarten through 12th grade classrooms. Here are additional steps you can take prior to the start of the school year to help keep your child safe.

1. Get a Physical

During the pandemic, many families put off well visits and physicals, including annual visits to the pediatrician. If your child has fallen behind on a regular well check, now is the time to schedule, especially before the school year begins.

“Children, preteens and teens all need regular checkups with their doctor, who can identify any health concerns early on,” says Dr. Niketakis-Wujciak. “During these annual visits, your doctor can make sure your child’s development is on track, talk about nutrition and exercise needs, and check on your child’s emotional well-being.”

2. Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccines

Similarly, rates of routine vaccination among children and teens dropped significantly in 2020, and even after stay-at-home orders were lifted, according to a CDC report from June 2021. “It’s incredibly concerning that so many kids have missed important routine vaccines, including vaccines for some potentially deadly diseases,” says Dr. Niketakis-Wujciak. “If your child or teen has missed a scheduled vaccine, make an appointment to get caught up before the school year starts.”

Just as in past years, children of all ages should get a flu shot this fall. COVID-19 and the seasonal flu likely will be circulating at the same time once again during the 2021-2022 winter. The flu shot will provide protection against the seasonal bugs that cause the flu.

3. Mask When Necessary

In early August 2021, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy announced a mask mandate for schools—applicable to all students, staff and visitors. “While the Delta variant is surging—and because many schools serve children under the age of 12 who are not currently eligible for vaccination—masks while indoors in schools are vital for protecting both students and teachers,” says Dr. Niketakis-Wujciak.

4. Continue to Emphasize Good Hygiene

Continue to encourage your kids to practice good hygiene at school and at home:

• Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available
• Cough or sneeze into the elbow

5. Make Sure Adults at Home Are Vaccinated

While kids under the age of 12 can’t get vaccinated, it’s even more important for adults to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Fully vaccinated adults are less likely to spread the virus and infect children.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Valerie Niketakis-Wujciak, M.D. To make an appointment with Dr. Niketakis-Wujciak or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Is your teen or preteen suffering from anxiety?
• 6 questions parents are asking about vaccines for kids

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post How to Make Sure Your Child Is Safe in School This Year appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

Heart inflammation is commonly caused by infections, including viruses or bacteria, although it may also occur in response to other factors, such as an autoimmune disease or certain medications. Mild cases may resolve on their own, but people may need medication or a medical procedure to alleviate the condition. Seeing a doctor when you experience symptoms like fever, chest pain and shortness of breath should help you get the care that you need.

“Heart inflammation is rare, but it has been talked about in the news more often in the past year-and-a-half because of the pandemic,” says Steven Hollenberg, M.D. “Some people who were infected with COVID-19 have experienced heart inflammation as a complication. More recently, heart inflammation has surfaced as a rare side effect after COVID-19 vaccination.”

There are three different types of heart inflammation:

• Myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle
• Pericarditis, which is inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart
• Endocarditis, which is inflammation of the inner lining of the heart, including the surface of the heart valves

The type of heart inflammation that has been associated with COVID-19 vaccines is myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle itself. Both myocarditis and pericarditis have been associated with COVID-19 illness.

Causes of heart inflammation

There are a number of causes of heart inflammation. The most common are:

• Viral infections, including enteroviruses, mononucleosis, HIV and COVID-19
• Bacterial infections, such as strep, staph and Lyme disease
• Fungal infections, particularly among people with weak immune systems
• Parasites, including toxoplasmosis and Chagas disease
• Autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
• Antibiotics
• Anti-seizure medication
• Some cancer medications
• Following a heart attack, heart surgery or cardiac trauma
• Certain vaccines

The link between COVID-19 and heart inflammation

Viruses are the most common cause of myocarditis. During the pandemic, some people with COVID-19 – which is caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2 – have experienced this type of heart inflammation as a complication of their illness. Researchers believe that this can happen for one of two reasons: direct injury to the heart muscle from the virus and/or cardiac damage because of the immune system reaction to COVID-19.

In June 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System had received more than 1,000 reports of heart inflammation – myocarditis and pericarditis – after Americans had received COVID-19 vaccines. More than 177 million Americans received COVID-19 vaccines during that time frame, which means that 0.0006  percent of all vaccinated people have had this reaction.

People who experienced heart inflammation after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine were more likely to be:

• Male
• Adolescents age 16 or older
• Young adults

Heart inflammation was more likely to occur in people who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna), usually within a few days of the second vaccination. Most people who were treated improved quickly and were able to resume their usual activities.

Public health experts still recommend that all people aged 12 and older get COVID-19 vaccines, because the benefits outweigh this potential risk, which is very small.

“It is very unlikely that a single individual – even a male adolescent or young adult – who gets a COVID-19 vaccine will experience this complication, and almost all of the cases have been mild” says Steven Hollenberg, M.D. “Protecting yourself from COVID-19 should be your first concern.”

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Steven Hollenberg, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Steven Hollenberg, M.D., or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

The post Causes of Heart Inflammation appeared first on Hackensack Meridian Health.

What is brain fog?

Brain fog refers to problems with thinking, memory and concentration, but for many patients, it can be challenging to describe.

“Patients often say they just don’t feel right,” says Talya Fleming, M.D., medical director, Post-COVID Rehabilitation Program at JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute. “We use the term ‘fog’ because patients feel that something is over them that is making things not as crisp or distinct as they were before.”

“I have heard patients say they have trouble with memory, are easily distracted, have trouble following a conversation, and have difficulty concentrating and attending to everyday tasks,” explains Kristie R. Soriano, MS, CCC/SLP, manager of Outpatient Speech Programs at JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute.

Symptoms of brain fog may also appear as:

• Walking into a room and forgetting why you are there
• Losing your train of thought
• Difficulty thinking of the right words
• Difficulty remembering what you just read
• Taking longer to complete tasks
• Forgetting recipes or steps when cooking
• Leaving lights or appliances on unintentionally
• Forgetting what you were doing after becoming distracted

“These symptoms often emerge after patients get through the medical emergency and go back to work,” comments Soriano. “In many cases, patients are having trouble functioning on the job or managing day-to-day responsibilities, which can negatively impact their quality of life.”

What causes brain fog after COVID-19?

According to Dr. Fleming, the medical community is still researching potential causes of brain fog after COVID-19. Researchers have identified several possible causes, including:

• Lack of oxygen caused by lung damage
• Inflammation affecting brain cells
• An autoimmune disorder that is causing the immune system to attack healthy cells in the body
• Lack of blood flow caused by swelling of the small blood vessels in the brain
• Invasion of infectious cells into the brain

“We know that different people have a wide range of long-term complications after COVID-19 infection, and a combination of factors may cause brain fog,” says Dr. Fleming.

How long does post-COVID brain fog last?

For some patients, post-COVID brain fog goes away in about three months. But for others, it can last much longer.

“We are seeing patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 in March 2020 that are still experiencing brain fog,” shares Soriano. “Although these patients report improvement in their symptoms, they still aren’t back to baseline.”

Patients who experience brain fog after COVID-19 should also be prepared for a “waxing and waning” course of recovery.

“Some days, patients may feel great — but two or three days later, they may not feel so great,” notes Soriano. “It’s important for patients not to get discouraged because recovery isn’t a straight course, and building up cognition can take time.”

Is help available for post-COVID brain fog?

A treatment plan for post-COVID brain fog may employ various strategies to help patients manage day-to-day life, including:

• Using a calendar, note-taking, or “to-do” lists to assist with memory
• Using word associations to help with finding the right words
• Minimizing distractions to improve attention
• Building up cognitive endurance to reduce cognitive fatigue and improve concentration

“Over time, as the patient recovers, they will need to rely on these strategies less and less,” says Soriano.

Dr. Fleming also says that the damage to the brain caused by COVID is more diffuse than with stroke or other types of brain injury, so it requires specialized treatment.

For example, increasing physical activity can have many beneficial effects, such as oxygenating and clearing toxins from the body. However, after COVID-19, some patients can experience a condition called post-exertional malaise, which results in a huge drop in energy levels after activity.

“We are all learning more about the long-term effects of COVID-19 as time passes. Oftentimes, patients who come to see us have already been to a primary care physician and other specialists who didn’t know how to help,” says Dr. Fleming. “We validate their concerns and develop a customized treatment program using strategies that we know work with other patients recovering from brain injury.”

“If you or a loved one is experiencing brain fog after COVID, or even if you aren’t sure, don’t just sit and wait for things to improve — get checked out,” said Soriano.

Next Steps & Resources:

• To make an appointment with Dr. Talya Fleming or another doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn about Hackensack Meridian Health’s COVID Recovery Center and the Post-COVID Rehabilitation Program at JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute
• Can COVID-19 Cause Back Pain?

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.

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