KZYX Local Coronavirus Update with Dr. Drew Colfax

On today's show Dr. Drew Colfax runs the local Coronavirus numbers and our local response to the new curfew. He also answers listener questions about travel, possibility for reinfection after an asymptomatic infection, drive through masking, safely masking on walks with friends, and more.

Show Notes

Mendocino County Numbers for 11-30-20
Total cases: 1580
Active cases: near 190
In Quarantine: 328
Pending Tests: 1580+
Hospitalization: 7
4.1% positivity rate
17 per 100,000
Deaths: 23

Mendocino Covid-19 Call Center: 707-472-2759


Testing:
Optumserv: Ukiah at the fairgrounds 7am to 7pm, seven days a week. Walk ins OK. Free. Website: https://lhi.care/covidtesting

Calls
  1. What do we know about immunity after an asymptomatic infection? The chances of getting reinfected are low, but it is still possible. If you get Covid a second time you are not likely to become seriously ill.
  2. What is the most accurate test available for people who don’t have any symptoms? Optumserv offers accurate PCR testing, as well as the Ukiah and Coast Adventist Hospitals. The Abbott Rapid Test Machine at Bechtel Creek Clinic in Willits is not nearly as accurate.
  3. How long should one quarantine if traveling to visit a loved one? That depends on the risk level of both individuals. Seven day quarantine after a negative test is recommended.
  4. What is the protocol for mask wearing when walking with friends outside? The first thing to do would be to make sure everyone in the group is on the same page, the next most helpful thing would be to stand as far apart as possible. If you need to stay within six feet of your friends, you should wear a mask.
  5. What is the deal with Comorbidities? Why do some people die and others don’t? Covid doubles your risk of dying if contracted. If you are older and therefore more at risk of dying in general, Covid will double that already high risk of death. There are other conditions that increase the risk of death from Covid, including heart conditions, dialysis patients, and high blood pressure. Obesity has become less of a comorbidity, but is still associated with poor outcomes.
  6. What are the risks of the Covid vaccine? Getting sick from immunizations is very rare. The risk is never zero but it is less of a risk than the illnesses vaccines prevent.
  7. How can the county spend millions on a hotel for the homeless but not provide testing for the area? The lack of testing is less of a county issue and more of a national and state issue. Giving rooms to the homeless to properly quarantine before the results of a Covid test and helps control the spread of the virus.

What is KZYX Local Coronavirus Update with Dr. Drew Colfax?

From KZYX Mendocino County Public Broadcasting: Join Ukiah ER physician Dr. Drew Colfax every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month for the latest local coronavirus numbers, insights about Mendocino county’s ongoing response, and reliable information about keeping yourself and the community safe during the pandemic. Alternates with Mind/Body Health with Dr. Marvin Trotter.