“Although some pundits have suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic will dissipate with coming warm temperatures and high humidity in the Northern Hemisphere, the virus is unlikely to be seasonal in nature, according to a paper published yesterday by the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.”

Countries in summer climates (Australia, Iran) are presently experiencing rapid virus spread.

MERS and SARS (both corona viruses) did not show a seasonal pattern.

Flu pandemics have not demonstrated seasonal patterns.

“There have been 10 influenza pandemics in the past 250-plus years—two started in the northern hemisphere winter, three in the spring, two in the summer and three in the fall,” they said. “All had a peak second wave approximately six months after emergence of the virus in the human population, regardless of when the initial introduction occurred.”

The study admits many limitations and caution is advised in drawing firm conclusions. Nevertheless, we should not depend on an assumption of summer bringing relief.

In the meantime, stay-at-home, social distancing, careful shopping habits, masks in public, frequent dis-infection of surfaces and handwashing, all make sense.

Remember, simply breathing can transmit virus without a cough or sneeze. Singing and yelling may simulate a cough (Washington choir experience reported previously). Asymptomatic individuals can be carriers (estimated 25% of carriers do not exhibit symptoms.)

Symptoms are extremely variable.

And the incubation period (time from viral transmission to appearance of symptoms) is highly variable.

Many folks presume you must have many symptoms, but only one or two may be present. Fever alone is enough. GI problems alone is consistent with one  of the many presentations. Sudden death due to myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) has been reported.

Besides the well known precautions that should be taken, remember to support your immune system with adequate restorative sleep.

Other lifestyle considerations that support your immune system include:

• Exercise
•  Meditation
•  Nutrient dense diet
•  Minimize exposure to enviornmental toxins
•  Spend time outdoors in a green space
•  Laughter
•  Maintain social connections and support, perhaps the most important factor

THIS WEBSITE PROVIDES INFORMATION FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR MEDICAL ADVICE.

Eat clean, drink filtered water, love, laugh, exercise outdoors in a greenspace, get some morning sunlight, block the blue light before bed, engage in meaningful work, find a sense of purpose, spend time with those you love, AND sleep well tonight.

Doctor Bob