When COVID-19 hit my hometown in Florida, it changed my life completely. Maybe for the better.
Yes, I was scared because I got sick in March with bronchitis. The government told us to stay home if you're uncomfortable. I considered myself a high risk since I have asthma.
My family and close friends too. They kept telling me not to return for work. I was probably among the first who stayed home. I encouraged others to do the same. Especially if they know of someone who could get sick.
I heard it was rough that weekend, crazy people at my Walmart store wanted toilet paper. Then they eventually wanted food supplies. Not sure why it wasn't the other way around.
I strongly believe I would've caught COVID-19 if I tried to tough it out and go to work like I normally do. I'm glad I didn't since I lost control over my asthma. I developed coughs, trouble breathing and I felt nauseous.
I had phenomena three years ago. It was similar symptoms, however I eventually vomited. Then mom took me to the hospital. I didn't throw up to know what was going on this time.
My oxygen was very low; I wondered if I was experiencing the same thing, just not as bad. I was able to take care of myself but I told my husband, if my breathing gets worse...take me to the hospital.
I eventually went to the hospital, got x-rayed, and found out I had bronchitis. They gave me something for my asthma but no antibiotics. So it dragged on for a couple weeks until I got better. I continued to stay home because I wanted to know if Florida was going to shut down.
We did on April 1st, which was too late. I know we should've done it earlier. The number of COVID-19 cases and deaths were rising. I attempted to go back to work when we started to flatten the curve.
I tried to help with overnight cleaning. The chemicals we used triggered my asthma, which made me stay home again. I became even more worried when my breathing was off. I went back to work since I was stressed about not being there. I still wasn't 100% better.
Then it got worse when Walmart employees started to wear masks mid April. This was hard on me with breathing problems already. I developed a sore throat, coughs again, all day headaches, and diarrhea. Management told me to get tested.
I got an x-ray again, found out I had acute bronchitis. Since I had respiratory problems, I decided to get tested for COVID-19. I went for a drive through in Daytona, Florida. They had me spit in a cup, which was interesting. They made sure it was a quick and easy process. It took less than an hour for us.
I never got the results so I assumed I was negative or they were hiding them. They were stopping the drive through by May. I suppose I'd never know. I was finally taking antibiotics at this point. I got better slowly. I started to see a family doctor to figure out what's wrong.
I decided not to go back to work. I had a feeling that my immune system must be weak right now. I'm currently redirecting my career in hopes to find a remote job or something I really want to do. This experience pushed me to finally leave a dead end job.
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Keep That Winter Jacket Handy, Another Polar Vortex is Coming
As the winter months continue to tighten their grip, meteorologists are issuing a fresh warning for North America: another polar vortex is on its way, bringing with it an intense blast of cold air that could cause significant disruptions. This latest wave of Arctic air will likely extend its reach across much of the United States and Canada, ushering in dangerously low temperatures, potential power outages, and treacherous travel conditions. For many, the polar vortex is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a reminder that winter is far from over. What is a Polar Vortex? The term "polar vortex" has become a buzzword in recent years, but for those unfamiliar, it refers to a massive area of cold, dense air that typically resides in the stratosphere over the Arctic. During certain conditions, the vortex can break free from its usual position, spilling cold air southward toward lower latitudes. This surge of Arctic air causes dramatic drops in temperatures and can result in extreme weather events, including snowstorms, ice storms, and widespread cold spells. While the polar vortex is a natural atmospheric phenomenon, its increased frequency and intensity in recent years have raised concerns among climate scientists. Some studies suggest that climate change may be playing a role in weakening the polar vortex, leading to more erratic and intense weather patterns. The Impact of the Upcoming Polar Vortex The latest polar vortex is expected to hit parts of the U.S. and Canada in the coming days, with the brunt of the cold air descending on the Midwest, Great Plains, and Northeast. Experts predict that temperatures could plunge to record lows, with some areas experiencing wind chills that make it feel like 30°F below zero or colder. For regions already reeling from previous winter storms, this new round of frigid weather will add another layer of strain. Meteorologists warn that the cold air will have the potential to disrupt daily life, from travel delays to power grid strain and even health risks. The cold snap is expected to arrive with little warning, catching many unprepared for the intensity of the chill. Health Risks: Staying Safe in Extreme Cold While some may enjoy the winter season and the snow it brings, the bitter cold of a polar vortex can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations. Health experts are advising residents of affected areas to take extra precautions when venturing outdoors. Frostbite and hypothermia are serious concerns during extreme cold spells. Frostbite occurs when skin and tissue freeze due to prolonged exposure to low temperatures, while hypothermia happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the body temperature to drop to dangerously low levels. "The risk of frostbite increases significantly when wind chills fall below -15°F, especially if people are not properly dressed," said Dr. Lisa Thompson, a public health official. "We urge people to limit their time outdoors, wear layers of warm clothing, and cover exposed skin as much as possible. If you must go out, take breaks indoors to warm up." Additionally, the cold temperatures pose a particular risk to the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart disease and respiratory issues. Cold weather can put additional strain on the heart and lungs, exacerbating underlying medical conditions. It's also essential to keep an eye on your neighbors, especially the elderly and those without access to heat, to ensure they remain safe during the cold snap. Power Outages and Infrastructure Stress Another consequence of a polar vortex is the strain it places on the power grid. As temperatures plummet, the demand for heating spikes, which can lead to power outages and disruptions in service. In regions where the power grid is already aging or underfunded, the added pressure can cause widespread blackouts. Utility companies in affected regions are bracing for increased demand, and some are warning customers to prepare for the possibility of rolling blackouts to prevent the grid from becoming overloaded. The combination of high electricity usage and potentially icy conditions on power lines makes it challenging for utility crews to quickly restore power in the event of an outage. In addition to power grid concerns, the extreme cold can affect transportation infrastructure. Icy roads and snow accumulation could make driving hazardous, especially in areas where road crews are not equipped to handle such severe weather. Travelers are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid unnecessary travel, and have emergency kits ready in their vehicles in case of delays or accidents. Preparing for the Polar Vortex With the threat of another polar vortex looming, it’s important for individuals and communities to prepare in advance. Here are some essential tips to help mitigate the risks associated with extreme cold: Dress Appropriately: Layering is key to staying warm. Wear moisture-wicking clothing, followed by insulating layers, and finish with a waterproof outer layer. Don't forget to cover your extremities—hats, gloves, and scarves are essential. Check Your Heating System: Ensure your heating system is functioning properly before the cold arrives. Replace furnace filters, check insulation, and seal any drafts around windows and doors. Stock Up on Essentials: If a snowstorm or cold snap is expected, consider stocking up on food, water, medications, and other necessities in case of a power outage or travel disruptions. Stay Informed: Keep a close watch on weather forecasts and updates from local authorities. Sign up for emergency alerts, especially if you're in an area prone to extreme winter weather. Prepare Your Car: If you must travel, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. This includes checking tire pressure, ensuring your car has antifreeze, and keeping an emergency kit with blankets, non-perishable food, and a flashlight. Help Vulnerable Neighbors: Reach out to elderly or disabled neighbors to ensure they have heat, supplies, and a safe place to stay. Consider offering assistance in clearing driveways or walkways to prevent slip-and-fall accidents. The Long-Term Effects of a Polar Vortex As the cold air settles in, the immediate effects of the polar vortex will be felt in homes, businesses, and communities. However, the long-term implications of these events are more concerning. The intense cold and prolonged winter weather can have ripple effects on the economy, with potential disruptions in the supply chain, delays in deliveries, and challenges for businesses in sectors like agriculture and retail. Moreover, as the climate continues to warm, experts suggest that we may see more erratic and extreme winter weather patterns, including stronger and more frequent polar vortex events. This has raised questions about the resilience of infrastructure and the ability of communities to adapt to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Conclusion As another polar vortex makes its way across North America, the challenges posed by extreme winter weather cannot be underestimated. The risks to health, infrastructure, and daily life are significant, and communities must be prepared for the cold temperatures and potential disruptions that lie ahead. By taking proactive steps to stay safe, monitor local conditions, and support vulnerable populations, we can weather this latest cold snap and prepare for the growing challenges posed by a changing climate.
By Fiaz Ahmed 5 days ago in Longevity
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