Ways to help older people, who are more vulnerable, during the coronavirus outbreak
Sharon Brangman, MD, chief of geriatrics at Upstate, explains that human immune systems deteriorate as we age. That's why older people are more susceptible to the coronavirus. She's telling her patients to stay home during the outbreak, especially if they are in their 80s, and talks about ways to help prevent feelings of isolation and to help seniors who need to maintain physical distance. Onondaga County Aging Services provides a hotline for those who need assistance with meals: call 315-218-1987 or click here for more information.
Note: If you are running a fever along with a cough or shortness of breath and are concerned about a possible coronavirus infection, contact your primary care doctor. If do not have a primary care doctor or are uninsured, call the Upstate COVID-19 hotline at 315-464-3979, and someone will tell you whether you should be tested. The number will be staffed from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. For questions about the disease, call the New York State Department of Health Coronavirus Hotline at 888-364-3065. Click here for COVID-19 information from Upstate.
