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Hello, I Am Concerned About Getting The Coronavirus. I Had

Posted on Thu, 16 Apr 2020

Question: Hello, I am concerned about getting the Coronavirus. I had to get essential bloodwork done today for a food allergy. The lab technician coughed two times and did not cover her mouth. She did not cough on me directly or anything but I suffer from health anxiety. The lab told me they check their temperature everyday and she said she felt good. I had an autoimmune disorder called dermatomyositis for about ten years. It went into remission in 2008. Would I be considered more at risk for getting the virus? Should I be concerned? Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No need to worry.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on the 'Ask A Doctor' forum.
I can understand your concern.

First of all, no need to get panic. Be relax and calm.
Although, yes, you seem to be at high risk because of your disease.

Just do Self-quarantine, use of hand wash and sanitizer, mask, and other precautions is the best way to prevent this.

Hope I have solved your query.
I will be happy to help you further.
Wish you good health.
Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Drkaushal85 (23 minutes later)

Ok, I would not get it from a cough unless it is directly on me. How long can cough particles linger in the air? Even though I have not had my disease for ten years I am still high risk? Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
If sunlight is not adequate, virus can live for hours.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your follow up question on Ask a doctor forum.
I can understand your concern.
If sunlight is not adequate then virus survival is high. They can live longer if sunlight is absent and temperature is below 20 degree celsius.
If adequate sunlight is there then virus can not survive longer (less than 20 minutes).
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj