Joy Fuller, who is a board certified family nurse practitioner and founder of Shenandoah Medical Care Center, Judy-Ann Wellington, president of the Black Nurse Practitioners Association, and Dr. Martine Senatus, discuss how the field is dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. Social distancing, hand washing and sanitizing, and masks are important preventative measures. They mention the lack of resources and education are translating into more cases in the African American community.

Symptoms include fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, body aches, headaches, nausea and headaches. People with co-morbidities such as hypertension and diabetes need to pay close attention to the aforementioned symptoms, as they are predisposed to catching the virus. In addition, regular primary care helps to prevent medical complications. Telemedicine is another option. A mass drive is being scheduled to provide sanitizer and other necessary products and resources.

Dr. Senatus discusses the psychological effects of the quarantine process. She says there will be an increase in mental illness cases as a result. She suggests calling 211 for support if necessary, boosting immunity, and obtaining and taking needed medications regularly. The holistic approach is not a cure for the coronavirus. However, drinking vitamin C and hot liquids, and taking multivitamin and zinc supplements helps to keep airways open and prevents the virus.