InfoSearched
Published -
- March 24, 2020
- 11:59 am
An infectious disease specialist at the University of Alabama, Dr. Michael Saag, contracted the coronavirus and detailed his symptoms to NBC News.
After monitoring how he felt for a few days, his symptoms turned from mild to extreme, in what Saag called “a horrible feeling.”
What steps can medical professionals take to protect themselves while treating COVID-19 patients?
As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, medical professionals have been at the forefront of the fight against this deadly virus. Unfortunately, doctors themselves are not immune to contracting the disease, and one physician in particular has shared his personal experience of battling COVID-19.
Dr. Joseph Varon, a critical care specialist at Houston’s United Memorial Medical Center, recently described his harrowing experience with the virus on CNN’s “New Day”. According to Varon, he first began experiencing symptoms on July 3rd, 2020, including a fever, body aches, and a severe cough. Over the next few days, his condition deteriorated rapidly, describing the pain as “absolutely everywhere” in his body.
Varon also revealed that he was extremely short of breath, and his oxygen levels had dropped significantly. As a medical professional, he knew all too well the severity of his condition, and he was eventually admitted to his own hospital for treatment. During his stay, he reported multiple episodes of low oxygen levels, and at one point, he received supplemental oxygen through a nasal cannula to help him breathe.
Despite his extensive medical knowledge and experience in treating critically ill patients, Varon was still taken aback by just how quickly the virus had ravaged his body. He also acknowledged that his experience was likely on the milder end of the spectrum, as he was fortunate enough to receive early intervention and access to medical care.
Varon’s story serves as a stark reminder of the toll that COVID-19 can take on even the most seasoned medical professionals. It’s also a reminder of the importance of continuing to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus, such as practicing social distancing, wearing masks, and washing hands frequently.
As the pandemic continues to rage on, it’s critical that we all do our part to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and those around us. This includes following recommended guidelines from health authorities, seeking medical attention when necessary, and staying informed about the latest developments in the fight against this deadly virus.
