Staying Safe As Society Reopens

Byron F. Harper III, MD
By Byron F. Harper III, MD
May 4, 2020

Many people are excited to "get back to normal" as businesses reopen and regular activities resume; I am too! But there's still the need to protect ourselves against COVID-19 while coming into contact with the general public again. Here are some action steps that you can take to help stay safe and healthy as society opens back up.

Wear Protection 

The COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted through infected people s microscopic respiratory droplets when they talk, cough, or sneeze. Face masks can provide a protective barrier, making it more difficult for these tiny droplets to get sucked into our air passages when we breathe. Wearing a mask is not convenient, but it is crucial during this time. Wear a mask when you are out and secure it snugly around both your mouth and nose to ensure it's as effective as possible.  

It may even be beneficial to wear a hat and long sleeves while out in public. This keeps the droplets from falling on the skin, where people are more likely to unconsciously touch and spread the virus to their mouths or other surfaces.  

Be Aware Of Contact With Commonly Touched Surfaces
One of the keys to lessening possible coronavirus exposure is to remain cognizant of what people do and do not touch in public. Research shows the COVID-19 can live up to five days on certain surfaces. So, do your best to be aware and minimize touching common surfaces such as handles, gas pumps, public transportation railings, touch screens, elevator buttons, and countertops. Instead of using your hands, try to utilize a napkin, glove or pen when you touch high-traffic surfaces.

Above all, be sure to also wash your hands or use hand sanitizer when you must touch these surfaces, and remember to refrain from touching your face or putting your fingers to your mouth.

Manage Expectations
It is extremely important that we manage our expectations in the coming months. We're in uncharted waters; life WILL BE different. There will probably be a lot of trial and error while society reopens. Signs seem to point to the reality that the COVID-19 virus is here to stay and may potentially come in waves on a yearly basis, similar to the flu virus.

However, hope is on the horizon. Oxford University, Pfizer and the president of the United States announced this past week they are highly optimistic they will have a COVID-19 vaccine available, possibly even by early fall. In recent clinical studies, therapeutic drugs like remdesivir have shown promise in treating the coronavirus as well. An effective weapon against the virus will go a long way in easing people's fears related to COVID-19.

Bottom line, do what you can to control what's in your power to control as we all grapple with this pandemic and its aftermath. Don't let your guard down and continue to make smart decisions when protecting yourself. Most importantly, stay hopeful because together people are resilient, and we're getting even closer as a world to overcoming COVID-19.


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About the Physician
Byron F. Harper III, MD

To me, your health is your greatest treasure and possession, next to family and faith. Thehonor and privilege that comes with being both your personal physician and a partner in your health journey humbles me and stirs in me a passion to provide you with the ideal environment that promotes better health.

I utilize an approach that champions the patient-physician partnership. In a relaxed,
unhurried environment during your visits, we will take the necessary time to help make sure there is a mutual understanding between us so that you are knowledgeable about your health options and assured that I understand your concerns and needs.  This includes a personalized healthcare plan focused on helping you to reach your goals by tailoring wellness, prevention, treatment and primary care specifically to you and your needs! 

A graduate of Emory University School of Medicine, I am a second-generation internal
medicine physician, board certified by the American Board of Medicine. Growing up in
both Coweta County and Fayette County and having practiced for over 30 years in the South Atlanta region, I have deep roots and understanding in the culture and uniqueness of these communities and the families who live here. I currently practice in Peachtree City, Georgia, and I am affiliated with Piedmont Fayette Hospital. I also serve as the Medical Director for Southwest Christian Care, a non-profit hospice facility in South Fulton County, for over 25 years. My special interests and experience include,
cardiovascular health, diabetes, hypertension, preventive care and nutrition.

You can be assured that my staff and I will strive to go above and beyond to care for
you as a person, support you and work with you to help you achieve your personal health goals and enjoy a healthier life. My MDVIP-affiliated practice offers services (including comprehensive, advanced health screenings and diagnostic tests) that go far beyond those found in concierge medicine practices. We look forward to making you feel like family.

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