Instruction: What about sore throat caused by swollen lymph node? I can see it on one side inside my mouth and my neck is sore to the touch behind that ear. :( Temp has been slightly above 99 Fahrenheit this evening but its my understanding that body temperature fluctuates throughout the day.

Output: If it's just a node it seems unlikely, but I have no way to tell for sure

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: What about sore throat caused by swollen lymph node? I can see it on one side inside my mouth and my neck is sore to the touch behind that ear. :( Temp has been slightly above 99 Fahrenheit this evening but its my understanding that body temperature fluctuates throughout the day.. ### Response: If it's just a node it seems unlikely, but I have no way to tell for sure.


Instruction: Is throat clearing the same as coughing? My coworker has been doing it all day and we share an office.

Output: not the same, but can be a sign if infection. Im not clairvoyant though.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Is throat clearing the same as coughing? My coworker has been doing it all day and we share an office.. ### Response: not the same, but can be a sign if infection. Im not clairvoyant though..


Instruction: How can I tell if I have new onset of asthma vs. COVID-19? I've had low fever, had to clear my throat but not cough, and have tightness in my chest / difficulty breathing and occasional pain in my lungs. There is no wheezing at all, no runny nose or congestion, my airways feel dry. I have no history of asthma, I'm 26 and exercise regularly (been recently training for cardio). The symptoms started in earnest about a week ago and got slightly worse the last few days. I'm trying to figure out if it could be just sudden onset of asthma or if I should be concerned that I have COVID-19. Any thoughts on to what extent these symptoms may resemble asthma?

Output: New onset asthma in adults rare Infection common

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: How can I tell if I have new onset of asthma vs. COVID-19? I've had low fever, had to clear my throat but not cough, and have tightness in my chest / difficulty breathing and occasional pain in my lungs. There is no wheezing at all, no runny nose or congestion, my airways feel dry. I have no history of asthma, I'm 26 and exercise regularly (been recently training for cardio). The symptoms started in earnest about a week ago and got slightly worse the last few days. I'm trying to figure out if it could be just sudden onset of asthma or if I should be concerned that I have COVID-19. Any thoughts on to what extent these symptoms may resemble asthma?. ### Response: New onset asthma in adults rare Infection common.


Instruction: Is it possible that there was a different strain of coronavirus that was non lethal circulating in the US this winter? I got quite sick in December 2019 and the main symptom was sore throat/persistent cough. Many people in the community were sick as well. It was definitely not flu, I did get screened and was negative and I also get flu vaccination annually. Also the period of fever was short and not particularly high.

Output: There are a variety of respiratory viruses that cause essentially the same upper respiratory symptoms. This includes other strains of coronavirus but most commonly it's rhinovirus or others. You can't really tell them apart without viral PCR test.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Is it possible that there was a different strain of coronavirus that was non lethal circulating in the US this winter? I got quite sick in December 2019 and the main symptom was sore throat/persistent cough. Many people in the community were sick as well. It was definitely not flu, I did get screened and was negative and I also get flu vaccination annually. Also the period of fever was short and not particularly high.. ### Response: There are a variety of respiratory viruses that cause essentially the same upper respiratory symptoms. This includes other strains of coronavirus but most commonly it's rhinovirus or others. You can't really tell them apart without viral PCR test..


Instruction: Glad you asked this. I also have stage 1 or 2 sarcoidosis which is largely asymptomatic. My brother, however, has fibrosed lungs due to severe sarcoidosis. I worry more about him as he is currently on an immunosuppressant which seems to be helping him.

Output: Not to my knowledge.That would come under the classification of pulmonary disease so I think would suggest higher risk of severe symptoms, but depends on age and severity of the sarcoidosis.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Glad you asked this. I also have stage 1 or 2 sarcoidosis which is largely asymptomatic. My brother, however, has fibrosed lungs due to severe sarcoidosis. I worry more about him as he is currently on an immunosuppressant which seems to be helping him.. ### Response: Not to my knowledge.That would come under the classification of pulmonary disease so I think would suggest higher risk of severe symptoms, but depends on age and severity of the sarcoidosis..


Instruction: Anti-inflammatories and steroids and COVID19I have seasonal allergies and I take albuterol, nasonex for symptom relief. I read that anti-inflammatories and steroids aggravate COVID19 symptoms. I'm not sick with any symptoms of COVID19, but should I stop taking these just in case?I also take antihistamines (Zyrtec/loratadine) and a daily inhaler Ventolin (I don't believe that is steroids).

Output: Good question.This has been widely reported after comments from the French health minister.As I understand is there is no good evidence suggesting any increased susceptibility to, or severity of COVID amongst those taking non-steroidal anti inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.People who regularly need steroid such as prednisone should absolutely keep taking them as normal unless directed otherwise by their doctor.Ill add a section to the post.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Anti-inflammatories and steroids and COVID19I have seasonal allergies and I take albuterol, nasonex for symptom relief. I read that anti-inflammatories and steroids aggravate COVID19 symptoms. I'm not sick with any symptoms of COVID19, but should I stop taking these just in case?I also take antihistamines (Zyrtec/loratadine) and a daily inhaler Ventolin (I don't believe that is steroids).. ### Response: Good question.This has been widely reported after comments from the French health minister.As I understand is there is no good evidence suggesting any increased susceptibility to, or severity of COVID amongst those taking non-steroidal anti inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.People who regularly need steroid such as prednisone should absolutely keep taking them as normal unless directed otherwise by their doctor.Ill add a section to the post..


Instruction: Shortness of breath muscle pain I wish they would define and describe these things, I am confused as to what they really mean.I have a persistent feeling that I need to yawn but cant- is that shortness of breath? Im not wheezing, I just feel tight. I had this a week to 2 weeks ago as well but attributed it to being on prednisone at the time.I have localized muscle pain, is that muscle pain? or does it need to be full body?I had contact with two people recently returned from Beijing 19 days ago. There are a few hundred confirmed cases in my area

Output: Needing to yawn is different from feeling like you can't catch your breath. The latter is shortness of breath. Generalized muscle pain is what you should expect with COVID-19, simmer to a flu or some bad colds.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Shortness of breath muscle pain I wish they would define and describe these things, I am confused as to what they really mean.I have a persistent feeling that I need to yawn but cant- is that shortness of breath? Im not wheezing, I just feel tight. I had this a week to 2 weeks ago as well but attributed it to being on prednisone at the time.I have localized muscle pain, is that muscle pain? or does it need to be full body?I had contact with two people recently returned from Beijing 19 days ago. There are a few hundred confirmed cases in my area. ### Response: Needing to yawn is different from feeling like you can't catch your breath. The latter is shortness of breath. Generalized muscle pain is what you should expect with COVID-19, simmer to a flu or some bad colds..


Instruction: came into this thread looking for the same thing. I had a slight tightness in my chest/throat without pain. intermittent chills, feeling feverish (but i dont think i actually have a fever), and no coughing.i have no difficulty breathing persay, but taking a deep breath requires more effort than it used to. I dont know if this qualifies as a "shortness of breath" because the definition is so vague.. is it considered having "difficulty breathing" even if you're not gasping for air?I've had no known contact with anyone with COVID19, been indoors since last Friday. But I live in NYC so I'd say my risk of having already caught it is pretty damn high.

Output: The feeling you are looking for is if you cannot catch your breath.We'll use this as the new COVID-19 question thread.We can't answer every question, especially those about whether you might or do have a case yourself. For general questions that we might be able to answer and that aren't explained in government and international websites, ask here. If you're asking a lot about your or loved ones' individual risk, look at the resources from reputable sources, like the sites linked in the original post here. We don't know better than the information provided, and we can't provide individual consultation to everyone.What is my risk?We can't answer that. The data available aren't thorough and granular enough, and we don't have full information, and that can't be calculated accurately even for the best-characterized diseases. All that we can say is repetition of the guidelines from the CDC and WHO websites, or other major organizations. Some comorbidities increase your risk. We can't say anything more individualized than that.What should I do [especially with individual risk factors]?There are no secret super-precautions to take. The recommendations are the same for everyone: wash your hands, don't touch your face, practice social distancing. It's more important for you, personally, if you have higher risk, but it's good advice for everyone. It reduces your risk of getting COVID-19, and it reduces your risk of spreading COVID-19 to someone who is higher risk than you.Previous megathreads:

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: came into this thread looking for the same thing. I had a slight tightness in my chest/throat without pain. intermittent chills, feeling feverish (but i dont think i actually have a fever), and no coughing.i have no difficulty breathing persay, but taking a deep breath requires more effort than it used to. I dont know if this qualifies as a "shortness of breath" because the definition is so vague.. is it considered having "difficulty breathing" even if you're not gasping for air?I've had no known contact with anyone with COVID19, been indoors since last Friday. But I live in NYC so I'd say my risk of having already caught it is pretty damn high.. ### Response: The feeling you are looking for is if you cannot catch your breath.We'll use this as the new COVID-19 question thread.We can't answer every question, especially those about whether you might or do have a case yourself. For general questions that we might be able to answer and that aren't explained in government and international websites, ask here. If you're asking a lot about your or loved ones' individual risk, look at the resources from reputable sources, like the sites linked in the original post here. We don't know better than the information provided, and we can't provide individual consultation to everyone.What is my risk?We can't answer that. The data available aren't thorough and granular enough, and we don't have full information, and that can't be calculated accurately even for the best-characterized diseases. All that we can say is repetition of the guidelines from the CDC and WHO websites, or other major organizations. Some comorbidities increase your risk. We can't say anything more individualized than that.What should I do [especially with individual risk factors]?There are no secret super-precautions to take. The recommendations are the same for everyone: wash your hands, don't touch your face, practice social distancing. It's more important for you, personally, if you have higher risk, but it's good advice for everyone. It reduces your risk of getting COVID-19, and it reduces your risk of spreading COVID-19 to someone who is higher risk than you.Previous megathreads:.


Instruction: Prediabetic and COVID-19So I know that if you have diabetes and you contract COVID-19 it could be bad. I was diagnosed with prediabetes and was wondering if that carries the same risk if I contract COVID-19

Output: No evidence of this to my knowledge.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Prediabetic and COVID-19So I know that if you have diabetes and you contract COVID-19 it could be bad. I was diagnosed with prediabetes and was wondering if that carries the same risk if I contract COVID-19. ### Response: No evidence of this to my knowledge..


Instruction: I'm in the same boat, I really can't tell if I have shortness of breath, or if it's just anxiety. It's been persistent for about two weeks now, with very few other symptoms like extremely mild cough now and then.

Output: Top of the FAQ under read this first.Do not seek medical attention unless you are so unwell that you need to go to hospital. Use online resources or call 111.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I'm in the same boat, I really can't tell if I have shortness of breath, or if it's just anxiety. It's been persistent for about two weeks now, with very few other symptoms like extremely mild cough now and then.. ### Response: Top of the FAQ under read this first.Do not seek medical attention unless you are so unwell that you need to go to hospital. Use online resources or call 111..


Instruction: In kind of a difficult situation with my children. 50/50 weekly custody split. Their mother got them yesterday and tells me 4 hours later that I need to pick them up because she has covid symptoms. It takes everything for me to not go get them but as I understand, conventional wisdom right now is to assume they are infected and not to spread it (leave them there). Youngest is 9 both children healthy. My girlfriend is also immunocompromised. Am I taking the appropriate precautions or is it better to get them out of there?

Output: Majority of guidance is that the children should be isolated for 14 days if they live with someone who is infected. You should follow local guidance.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: In kind of a difficult situation with my children. 50/50 weekly custody split. Their mother got them yesterday and tells me 4 hours later that I need to pick them up because she has covid symptoms. It takes everything for me to not go get them but as I understand, conventional wisdom right now is to assume they are infected and not to spread it (leave them there). Youngest is 9 both children healthy. My girlfriend is also immunocompromised. Am I taking the appropriate precautions or is it better to get them out of there?. ### Response: Majority of guidance is that the children should be isolated for 14 days if they live with someone who is infected. You should follow local guidance..


Instruction: have an academic question about asymptomatic carriers of covid-19.people who are infected but not showing symptoms - does that mean their body is not responding to the infection, and not creating antibodies to destroy the invading virus?If that's so, does that mean they will be able to infect other people way past two weeks?

Output: Absolutely they are having a normal immune response.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: have an academic question about asymptomatic carriers of covid-19.people who are infected but not showing symptoms - does that mean their body is not responding to the infection, and not creating antibodies to destroy the invading virus?If that's so, does that mean they will be able to infect other people way past two weeks?. ### Response: Absolutely they are having a normal immune response..


Instruction: thank you for the response. Quick follow-up (and sorry about the dumb questions): do you mean an asymptomatic carrier will have a normal immune response, therefore will still create antibodies to fight the virus despite being asymptomatic?Or do you mean in spite of having a normal immune response, their body couldn't detect the virus (therefore asymptomatic and won't fight the virus)?

Output: The former

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: thank you for the response. Quick follow-up (and sorry about the dumb questions): do you mean an asymptomatic carrier will have a normal immune response, therefore will still create antibodies to fight the virus despite being asymptomatic?Or do you mean in spite of having a normal immune response, their body couldn't detect the virus (therefore asymptomatic and won't fight the virus)?. ### Response: The former.


Instruction: Hi, hopefully someone can ease my anxiety a little, we have our wedding planned for July of next year, there's still a lot of planning to do, and I'm worried that even though it's over a year away this virus could get big enough that large gatherings will still be banned by then. Is this realistic? Is there enough research going into the virus that we should be able to get on top of it all with vaccines and treatments within a year?I know that there are people out there who's health is on the line, and they have more right than I do to be anxious, but... I'm worried about it too. Basically I just need reassuring that I can keep planning and we won't be living in a post apocalyptic society by then.

Output: Sorry I cannot predict the future.I will be surprised if this has not settled down in 16 months

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Hi, hopefully someone can ease my anxiety a little, we have our wedding planned for July of next year, there's still a lot of planning to do, and I'm worried that even though it's over a year away this virus could get big enough that large gatherings will still be banned by then. Is this realistic? Is there enough research going into the virus that we should be able to get on top of it all with vaccines and treatments within a year?I know that there are people out there who's health is on the line, and they have more right than I do to be anxious, but... I'm worried about it too. Basically I just need reassuring that I can keep planning and we won't be living in a post apocalyptic society by then.. ### Response: Sorry I cannot predict the future.I will be surprised if this has not settled down in 16 months.


Instruction: What exactly is the difference between the names COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, and 2019-nCoV?

Output: Covid19 is the name of the disease,sars cov2 is the name of the virus. The last term isn't used anymore.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: What exactly is the difference between the names COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, and 2019-nCoV?. ### Response: Covid19 is the name of the disease,sars cov2 is the name of the virus. The last term isn't used anymore..


Instruction: Is it safe to take anti-histamines if you think you might have COVID? I think I am also experiencing seasonal allergies based on runny nose, sneezing, and dry eyes. I just don't want to suppress my immune response.

Output: Yes

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Is it safe to take anti-histamines if you think you might have COVID? I think I am also experiencing seasonal allergies based on runny nose, sneezing, and dry eyes. I just don't want to suppress my immune response.. ### Response: Yes.


Instruction: What are the chances of it spreading through a hvac(forced air) heating system? I live in a basement suite. When my upstairs neighbours get a cough or virus. I seem to get it a few days later.

Output: We don't know. It's possible.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: What are the chances of it spreading through a hvac(forced air) heating system? I live in a basement suite. When my upstairs neighbours get a cough or virus. I seem to get it a few days later.. ### Response: We don't know. It's possible..


Instruction: Any potential issues taking albuterol through an inhaler for asthma symptoms if the symptoms are actually being caused by COVID-19 respiratory infections?

Output: No continue you usual meds

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Any potential issues taking albuterol through an inhaler for asthma symptoms if the symptoms are actually being caused by COVID-19 respiratory infections?. ### Response: No continue you usual meds.


Instruction: There is a post online circulating by someone who says that she has been in pediatrics for 8 years. Her post indicates that she believes that Covid-19 has been moving through the United States for several months. She describes symptoms, cases she has had come into the practice she works at, and says that she would send samples off for testing if it was possible.Her post has been shared almost 300,000 times. In most of the local posts, there are about 30-50 likes. That means that this is reaching upwards of 15 million people.I am also in the medical field, but as someone who helps make decisions for at-risk patients. In my small town in Florida, this nurse's post has been shared by half of my town. The comments are all in agreement - they've all had this before. It's utter nonsense, shared by people who simply don't understand the first thing about medicine or pandemics.I contacted this nurse this morning and informed her that her post is spreading through my community as well as others, and that it is being used to suggest that people don't need to take this seriously, do not need to socially isolate, etc. I asked her to recant and print a retraction. She threatened to sue me for stalking her. She then went and put a disclaimer on her post telling people to take Covid-19 seriously. The issue is - her words are being copy and pasted, and not shared, so people are still reading her post without the disclaimer. And they're taking it as gospel.I decided this afternoon to call her office, only to find out that there was no way to bring this to her doctor's attention without going through her. She already told me that she manages the Facebook page. Apparently she also screens the emails to her doctor, according to the receptionist. There is no way to contact this doctor directly, and I have tried every way possible. I am hesitant to report her to the board of nursing, and even if I did, I don't have her information.Should I let this be? All I want is for her to print a retraction and remove her original post - I don't want to personally be involved, I just don't want the locals in my town to buy her conspiracy theories. I don't know what to do from here.

Output: Well youre correct its clearly rubbish but as a physician I have no idea what to suggest

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: There is a post online circulating by someone who says that she has been in pediatrics for 8 years. Her post indicates that she believes that Covid-19 has been moving through the United States for several months. She describes symptoms, cases she has had come into the practice she works at, and says that she would send samples off for testing if it was possible.Her post has been shared almost 300,000 times. In most of the local posts, there are about 30-50 likes. That means that this is reaching upwards of 15 million people.I am also in the medical field, but as someone who helps make decisions for at-risk patients. In my small town in Florida, this nurse's post has been shared by half of my town. The comments are all in agreement - they've all had this before. It's utter nonsense, shared by people who simply don't understand the first thing about medicine or pandemics.I contacted this nurse this morning and informed her that her post is spreading through my community as well as others, and that it is being used to suggest that people don't need to take this seriously, do not need to socially isolate, etc. I asked her to recant and print a retraction. She threatened to sue me for stalking her. She then went and put a disclaimer on her post telling people to take Covid-19 seriously. The issue is - her words are being copy and pasted, and not shared, so people are still reading her post without the disclaimer. And they're taking it as gospel.I decided this afternoon to call her office, only to find out that there was no way to bring this to her doctor's attention without going through her. She already told me that she manages the Facebook page. Apparently she also screens the emails to her doctor, according to the receptionist. There is no way to contact this doctor directly, and I have tried every way possible. I am hesitant to report her to the board of nursing, and even if I did, I don't have her information.Should I let this be? All I want is for her to print a retraction and remove her original post - I don't want to personally be involved, I just don't want the locals in my town to buy her conspiracy theories. I don't know what to do from here.. ### Response: Well youre correct its clearly rubbish but as a physician I have no idea what to suggest.


Instruction: My dad is a domestic US pilot, and he's going to be in my city this week. Would it be a bad idea to still meet up (in a non-public place)? I'm 24, he's 55, we're both currently healthy - as far as we know - without any comorbidities. Feeling like I should cancel but I really want to see him.

Output: If youre both free of symptoms you can certainly see one another. Large gatherings or unnecessary social contact for those at high risk (elderly, co-morbidities) should be avoided. As always follow your local guidance.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: My dad is a domestic US pilot, and he's going to be in my city this week. Would it be a bad idea to still meet up (in a non-public place)? I'm 24, he's 55, we're both currently healthy - as far as we know - without any comorbidities. Feeling like I should cancel but I really want to see him.. ### Response: If youre both free of symptoms you can certainly see one another. Large gatherings or unnecessary social contact for those at high risk (elderly, co-morbidities) should be avoided. As always follow your local guidance..


Instruction: 12 days ago my father wasn't feeling well (after a week of feeling unwell, with symptoms of common cold), he went to hospital because he was suspected to be infected with coronvirus, he had a chest CT scan and blood test (I think for CBC and CRP), the doctor said his CT scan showed lung infection but it was not coronavirus, they prescribed her some medication and he's got very well and back to normal life.7 days ago or so my mom got sick too with symptoms like fatigue and cough. he went to our local clinic, got some medication and the doctor prescribed her a blood test. she got well too but 2 days ago she went to doctor to check and show her blood test, the doctor told her "you were close to get coronavirus but the danger has passed" (excuse my language but I don't know what the fuck he meant!) my mom then has asked her if a lung image is needed and he's replied that it's not needed and her lungs are fine (he's checked her breathing pattern with Stethoscope apparently). he then has prescribed Vitamin D and acid folic in addition to her previous medications such as Amoxicillin. My mom is alright and her illness is mostly gone but I looked at her blood test, these are the numbers:W.B.C: 3700 /ulRBC: 4.09 (10*6/ul)Neutrophilis%: 64Lymphocyte%: 36CRP: (Positive) 48 mg/lShould I be worried? what's the right thing to do? as I checked with test references, her CRP is so high, normal level should be less than 6 apparently. Is it possible that she suddenly and silently get very sick without symptoms, now that she's quite fine?

Output: Bloods consistent with non-specific infection.Cannot tell you if they have/had coronavirus without a test.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: 12 days ago my father wasn't feeling well (after a week of feeling unwell, with symptoms of common cold), he went to hospital because he was suspected to be infected with coronvirus, he had a chest CT scan and blood test (I think for CBC and CRP), the doctor said his CT scan showed lung infection but it was not coronavirus, they prescribed her some medication and he's got very well and back to normal life.7 days ago or so my mom got sick too with symptoms like fatigue and cough. he went to our local clinic, got some medication and the doctor prescribed her a blood test. she got well too but 2 days ago she went to doctor to check and show her blood test, the doctor told her "you were close to get coronavirus but the danger has passed" (excuse my language but I don't know what the fuck he meant!) my mom then has asked her if a lung image is needed and he's replied that it's not needed and her lungs are fine (he's checked her breathing pattern with Stethoscope apparently). he then has prescribed Vitamin D and acid folic in addition to her previous medications such as Amoxicillin. My mom is alright and her illness is mostly gone but I looked at her blood test, these are the numbers:W.B.C: 3700 /ulRBC: 4.09 (10*6/ul)Neutrophilis%: 64Lymphocyte%: 36CRP: (Positive) 48 mg/lShould I be worried? what's the right thing to do? as I checked with test references, her CRP is so high, normal level should be less than 6 apparently. Is it possible that she suddenly and silently get very sick without symptoms, now that she's quite fine?. ### Response: Bloods consistent with non-specific infection.Cannot tell you if they have/had coronavirus without a test..


Instruction: I live my aunt and her boyfriend. They refuse to let me leave or open windows thinking it will make me 100% safe. Does that ensure safety or are there any other things they should o

Output: You are minimising risk but nothing is impossible.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I live my aunt and her boyfriend. They refuse to let me leave or open windows thinking it will make me 100% safe. Does that ensure safety or are there any other things they should o. ### Response: You are minimising risk but nothing is impossible..


Instruction: The UK released last night that anyone whos routinely offered a flu vaccine on the NHS due to a chronic condition is now classed in the high risk group Ive got digestive tract paralysis, an ileostomy, dysautonomia, chronic joint pain, chronic fatigue and urinary retention as my main conditions None of these affect my heart or lungs so I accept that I may be higher risk to catch it but in my eyes I shouldnt be higher risk of getting complications except maybe my potassium dropping lower than usual if I struggle with oral intake/get the rare diarrhoea Do you think Im right in my assessment of my risk or would you consider someone like me high risk for complications too ? Im a 24 year old female by the way who does have a history of being hospitalised with chest infections

Output: Cannot comment on individual risk.As in the above post age is the biggest risk factor for severe disease.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: The UK released last night that anyone whos routinely offered a flu vaccine on the NHS due to a chronic condition is now classed in the high risk group Ive got digestive tract paralysis, an ileostomy, dysautonomia, chronic joint pain, chronic fatigue and urinary retention as my main conditions None of these affect my heart or lungs so I accept that I may be higher risk to catch it but in my eyes I shouldnt be higher risk of getting complications except maybe my potassium dropping lower than usual if I struggle with oral intake/get the rare diarrhoea Do you think Im right in my assessment of my risk or would you consider someone like me high risk for complications too ? Im a 24 year old female by the way who does have a history of being hospitalised with chest infections. ### Response: Cannot comment on individual risk.As in the above post age is the biggest risk factor for severe disease..


Instruction: Highly probable that I have Covid 19 and I was wondering if I should continue nursing my 12 month old daughter. She is also feverish but much milder than myself and I was curious if there is any literature or recommendations in regards to breastfeeding. I know other illnesses can pass on antibodies and wasnt sure if this was the same or if I could make her more sick.

Output: To my knowledge no evidence passed on breast milk.Illness generally very mild in children.QuestiomThank you for the information! This is indeed a pandemic of a lifetime, but i just wanted to clarify the overall death rate: 1 in 10 people are sick enough to get tested, of those 1 in 8 get hospitalized, of those 1 in 6 are critical and of those half die. So the death rate is 1/10/8/6/2 which is about 0.1% (probably understated a bit because some COVID deaths are misattributed). Is that correct or have I missed something? These numbers seem much lower than what usually gets reported (2% i believe).Data very rough, dont extrapolate from it.Mortality rate quoted for confirmed cases. Far more out there undiagnosed so probably lower than initially thought in the whole population. Mortality rate amongst elderly is horrific.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Highly probable that I have Covid 19 and I was wondering if I should continue nursing my 12 month old daughter. She is also feverish but much milder than myself and I was curious if there is any literature or recommendations in regards to breastfeeding. I know other illnesses can pass on antibodies and wasnt sure if this was the same or if I could make her more sick.. ### Response: To my knowledge no evidence passed on breast milk.Illness generally very mild in children.QuestiomThank you for the information! This is indeed a pandemic of a lifetime, but i just wanted to clarify the overall death rate: 1 in 10 people are sick enough to get tested, of those 1 in 8 get hospitalized, of those 1 in 6 are critical and of those half die. So the death rate is 1/10/8/6/2 which is about 0.1% (probably understated a bit because some COVID deaths are misattributed). Is that correct or have I missed something? These numbers seem much lower than what usually gets reported (2% i believe).Data very rough, dont extrapolate from it.Mortality rate quoted for confirmed cases. Far more out there undiagnosed so probably lower than initially thought in the whole population. Mortality rate amongst elderly is horrific..


Instruction: Why dont doctors give people antivirals early on in a cough to prevent lung damage. Why are public health authorities waiting until people need or are close to needing ventilators to test them.

Output: Multiple studies underway to see if antivirals effective Public health decisions are local and political

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Why dont doctors give people antivirals early on in a cough to prevent lung damage. Why are public health authorities waiting until people need or are close to needing ventilators to test them.. ### Response: Multiple studies underway to see if antivirals effective Public health decisions are local and political.


Instruction: I understand social distancing well enough to understand the message. Stay home. For my own mental health, I was wondering if fishing, alone, on a river close to home is something thats still feasible. Is this a situation in which even while alone, in a quiet place in the woods, Im still putting myself or others at risk?

Output: Close contact needed for transmission.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I understand social distancing well enough to understand the message. Stay home. For my own mental health, I was wondering if fishing, alone, on a river close to home is something thats still feasible. Is this a situation in which even while alone, in a quiet place in the woods, Im still putting myself or others at risk?. ### Response: Close contact needed for transmission..


Instruction: Why isn't thorough nose and face washing being advised with hand washing if the end goal is to keep virus from face (entry points). Thanks.

Output: People tend not to touch things with their faces, apart from their hands

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Why isn't thorough nose and face washing being advised with hand washing if the end goal is to keep virus from face (entry points). Thanks.. ### Response: People tend not to touch things with their faces, apart from their hands.


Instruction: My doctor found a shadow on my liver in an ultrasound. Im scheduled for a ct scan on Monday and a follow up doctor appointment Friday. However, should this wait? What if Im exposed to covid by going to the dr. On the other hand what if I have cancer and should be seen....what would you recommend?

Output: Continue normal medical care unless advised otherwise by your doctor

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: My doctor found a shadow on my liver in an ultrasound. Im scheduled for a ct scan on Monday and a follow up doctor appointment Friday. However, should this wait? What if Im exposed to covid by going to the dr. On the other hand what if I have cancer and should be seen....what would you recommend?. ### Response: Continue normal medical care unless advised otherwise by your doctor.


Instruction: I have about a 28ish BMI so I'm overweight but not obese. Am I at higher risk because of that?

Output: Government guidance. High risk BMI >40

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I have about a 28ish BMI so I'm overweight but not obese. Am I at higher risk because of that?. ### Response: Government guidance. High risk BMI >40.


Instruction: I have probable covid-19 but dont meet travel/contact requirements for testing. I am a 28 year old female with no comorbidities, however my lymphocytes are consistently low and neutrophils high in various bloodwork throughout the years. Not sure why.Severe cough for about a week, fever for past five days, influenza A and B negative, virus panel also negative. Chest X-ray shows no pneumonia, but Ive read that covid-19 pneumonia can only be seen on a CT scan. Coughing up frothy sputum almost constantly, pain when breathing, and getting lightheaded with light activity around the house.Naturally I am quarantined with my family however:-should I be concerned about developing pneumonia?-when they talk about the possibility of convos-19 patients developing long-term or permanent fibrosis, what exactly does this mean? What symptoms would one have, and how would one get tested in the first place?Thanks!

Output: If your symptoms worsen and you are concerned seek reassessment.Given this virus was only identified less than three months ago anyone whos talking about secondary fibrosis or any other long term effects is full of shit.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I have probable covid-19 but dont meet travel/contact requirements for testing. I am a 28 year old female with no comorbidities, however my lymphocytes are consistently low and neutrophils high in various bloodwork throughout the years. Not sure why.Severe cough for about a week, fever for past five days, influenza A and B negative, virus panel also negative. Chest X-ray shows no pneumonia, but Ive read that covid-19 pneumonia can only be seen on a CT scan. Coughing up frothy sputum almost constantly, pain when breathing, and getting lightheaded with light activity around the house.Naturally I am quarantined with my family however:-should I be concerned about developing pneumonia?-when they talk about the possibility of convos-19 patients developing long-term or permanent fibrosis, what exactly does this mean? What symptoms would one have, and how would one get tested in the first place?Thanks!. ### Response: If your symptoms worsen and you are concerned seek reassessment.Given this virus was only identified less than three months ago anyone whos talking about secondary fibrosis or any other long term effects is full of shit..


Instruction: What sort of things should people use disinfectant on?Should they use it on surfaces other people people touch because Covid-19 can live on surfaces?

Output: Data still emerging about how long it persists on different materials.You cant be too clean

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: What sort of things should people use disinfectant on?Should they use it on surfaces other people people touch because Covid-19 can live on surfaces?. ### Response: Data still emerging about how long it persists on different materials.You cant be too clean.


Instruction: Does Covid-19 just live on people's skin and then gets transmitted by touch?Is it transmitted through bodily fluids?

Output: Most aerosol spread from coughing onto external surfaces or other people. Coughing onto hands then touching other people also spreads. Hence hand hygiene and social distancing essential

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Does Covid-19 just live on people's skin and then gets transmitted by touch?Is it transmitted through bodily fluids?. ### Response: Most aerosol spread from coughing onto external surfaces or other people. Coughing onto hands then touching other people also spreads. Hence hand hygiene and social distancing essential.


Instruction: w.r.t the last FAQ point, I have tried to dissect the Lancet letter in question, and am wondering if my interpretation is correct;https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(20)30116-8/fulltextBasically what I understand is that if you are taking ACE Inhibitors, and you encounter a drug interaction with a different drug, there may be additional risk/complications.However, this is only off investigating dead bodies with comorbidities, so it's not necessarily an accurate representation of the facts.Thanks

Output: As I understand (DOI I have not read the paper relying on others interpretation) the lancet paper is hypothetical not hard evidence. European society of cardiology has an excellent position paper on the use of ACE- inhibitors/A2RBs that is available on their website.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: w.r.t the last FAQ point, I have tried to dissect the Lancet letter in question, and am wondering if my interpretation is correct;https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(20)30116-8/fulltextBasically what I understand is that if you are taking ACE Inhibitors, and you encounter a drug interaction with a different drug, there may be additional risk/complications.However, this is only off investigating dead bodies with comorbidities, so it's not necessarily an accurate representation of the facts.Thanks. ### Response: As I understand (DOI I have not read the paper relying on others interpretation) the lancet paper is hypothetical not hard evidence. European society of cardiology has an excellent position paper on the use of ACE- inhibitors/A2RBs that is available on their website..


Instruction: Can you contact COVID19 by eating food that has the virus? Let me give you an example. You order a take out pizza and the cook sneezes on the pizza so virus droplets are on the food. Are you able to get the virus by eating it or would you have to get the virus on your hands and then touch your nose/eyes in order to get the virus?

Output: If someone with covid sneezes on something and you then eat it then yes you could contract it that way.Of course if your local pizza chef has a habit of sneezing on food then serving it Id advise finding a new pizza restaurant.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Can you contact COVID19 by eating food that has the virus? Let me give you an example. You order a take out pizza and the cook sneezes on the pizza so virus droplets are on the food. Are you able to get the virus by eating it or would you have to get the virus on your hands and then touch your nose/eyes in order to get the virus?. ### Response: If someone with covid sneezes on something and you then eat it then yes you could contract it that way.Of course if your local pizza chef has a habit of sneezing on food then serving it Id advise finding a new pizza restaurant..


Instruction: I keep hearing that a large a symptomatic portion of the population spreads the disease because they dont know they have it. If this virus is try spread via droplets, then how do asymptomatic infected people spread it? Wouldnt they need to be coughing, sneezing, etc for it to spread easily? Otherwise wouldnt chances of spreading be super minimal from an asymptomatic person?

Output: You could also get it from them touching their face then touching a doorknob.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I keep hearing that a large a symptomatic portion of the population spreads the disease because they dont know they have it. If this virus is try spread via droplets, then how do asymptomatic infected people spread it? Wouldnt they need to be coughing, sneezing, etc for it to spread easily? Otherwise wouldnt chances of spreading be super minimal from an asymptomatic person?. ### Response: You could also get it from them touching their face then touching a doorknob..


Instruction: I read it can survive 3 hours in the air. Is this true? For example, if you go into an elevator that was previously ridden by someone infected, how likely are you to get infected?

Output: No, the virus is not likely to be randomly aerosolized as far as we currently know. It's droplets, which can survive on surfaces. The air problem is mostly in the hospital during high risk respiratory procedures.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I read it can survive 3 hours in the air. Is this true? For example, if you go into an elevator that was previously ridden by someone infected, how likely are you to get infected?. ### Response: No, the virus is not likely to be randomly aerosolized as far as we currently know. It's droplets, which can survive on surfaces. The air problem is mostly in the hospital during high risk respiratory procedures..


Instruction: I don't know if this is the right place to ask this, I can post it elsewhere if it's not.I'm 23F, 5'3 117lbs, in canada. drink occasionally and very rarely smokeI've never had the flu, and I hardly ever get colds. The most I'll get is the sniffles, sore throat and a headache in winter. The only times I've been sick with something that I can remember was a stomach bug 2 or 3 times and I think I had strep throat at some point.I've had the flu shot maybe once when I was a kid but I can't remember another time since then. There's no real reason to it, I know I should be getting it but my parents never enforced it so we all just forget out it (my family is like this too, I could count on one hand the times one of got really sick with something.) I know I should because it hurts other people but that's not the point to this. My question is this, from what I understand having a flu shot and getting the flu builds immunity to the virus, right? If I've never had the flu or the flu shot, and I get the COVID19, is my body not gonna take it well? I know you probably don't have an exact answer to this since we are all still learning about it but maybe theoretically could you tell me what you think? or how would I react if I get the seasonal flu?

Output: Having had seasonal flu or the flu vaccine has nothing to do with how you may react to this covid virus

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I don't know if this is the right place to ask this, I can post it elsewhere if it's not.I'm 23F, 5'3 117lbs, in canada. drink occasionally and very rarely smokeI've never had the flu, and I hardly ever get colds. The most I'll get is the sniffles, sore throat and a headache in winter. The only times I've been sick with something that I can remember was a stomach bug 2 or 3 times and I think I had strep throat at some point.I've had the flu shot maybe once when I was a kid but I can't remember another time since then. There's no real reason to it, I know I should be getting it but my parents never enforced it so we all just forget out it (my family is like this too, I could count on one hand the times one of got really sick with something.) I know I should because it hurts other people but that's not the point to this. My question is this, from what I understand having a flu shot and getting the flu builds immunity to the virus, right? If I've never had the flu or the flu shot, and I get the COVID19, is my body not gonna take it well? I know you probably don't have an exact answer to this since we are all still learning about it but maybe theoretically could you tell me what you think? or how would I react if I get the seasonal flu?. ### Response: Having had seasonal flu or the flu vaccine has nothing to do with how you may react to this covid virus.


Instruction: Low respiratory rate and possible Bradypnea?M35, 57, 190lbsHi all. Ive been tracking my breathing rate using a Fitbit Sense, and it has been fluctuating between 10-11 every night. In addition I snore, occasionally wake up throughout the night, and get lightheaded occasionally (maybe one brief spell once per week), but that often goes when I eat. Otherwise feel fine. I was diagnosed with vertigo a couple of years ago when my dizziness was particularly bad and the medication cleared that up.Is this something to be concerned with? I keep reading that below 12 is abnormal but I cant find much more than that. Is that below 12 when awake? Is 10 ok when sleeping?

Output: Yes, it's totally fine. It's a pretty useless thing to track.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Low respiratory rate and possible Bradypnea?M35, 57, 190lbsHi all. Ive been tracking my breathing rate using a Fitbit Sense, and it has been fluctuating between 10-11 every night. In addition I snore, occasionally wake up throughout the night, and get lightheaded occasionally (maybe one brief spell once per week), but that often goes when I eat. Otherwise feel fine. I was diagnosed with vertigo a couple of years ago when my dizziness was particularly bad and the medication cleared that up.Is this something to be concerned with? I keep reading that below 12 is abnormal but I cant find much more than that. Is that below 12 when awake? Is 10 ok when sleeping?. ### Response: Yes, it's totally fine. It's a pretty useless thing to track..


Instruction: Thank you! My hypochondria gets the better of me sometimes

Output: So why have a device that gives you too much information with no real need/ability to analyze it usefully? Get rid of that smart watch thing and move on with life.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Thank you! My hypochondria gets the better of me sometimes. ### Response: So why have a device that gives you too much information with no real need/ability to analyze it usefully? Get rid of that smart watch thing and move on with life..


Instruction: Can the cause of a respiratory infection be determined by listening to a patient's lungs?Patient is 33F, 5'3", 105 lbs, has a history of psoriatic arthritis and gerd and takes humira, methotrexate and pantoprazole.Patient has had wheezing and chest congestion for three weeks. PA listened to patient's lungs and said the diffuse rather than focal crackling/wheezing sound ruled out bacterial and fungal infections. Can these infections truly be ruled out based on sound? No tests were performed.

Output: No. Classical "typical" pneumonia tends to be localized to one part of the lung. "Atypical" bacterial pneumonias can be diffuse. I would be very concerned about a patient with an autoimmune condition on multiple immune suppressing medications (especially the humira). Three weeks is a long time to infectious symptoms -- typically if something hasn't gone away in 10-14 days we look into it further. I strongly suggest you seek out another opinion, probably from an MD or DO who will likely have more training and experience than a PA.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Can the cause of a respiratory infection be determined by listening to a patient's lungs?Patient is 33F, 5'3", 105 lbs, has a history of psoriatic arthritis and gerd and takes humira, methotrexate and pantoprazole.Patient has had wheezing and chest congestion for three weeks. PA listened to patient's lungs and said the diffuse rather than focal crackling/wheezing sound ruled out bacterial and fungal infections. Can these infections truly be ruled out based on sound? No tests were performed.. ### Response: No. Classical "typical" pneumonia tends to be localized to one part of the lung. "Atypical" bacterial pneumonias can be diffuse. I would be very concerned about a patient with an autoimmune condition on multiple immune suppressing medications (especially the humira). Three weeks is a long time to infectious symptoms -- typically if something hasn't gone away in 10-14 days we look into it further. I strongly suggest you seek out another opinion, probably from an MD or DO who will likely have more training and experience than a PA..


Instruction: Results of blood tests show abnormal for a lot of things and I was randomly scheduled to see a respiratory therapist. Please help me understand25 year old male 62 181 lbsNo alcohol ever, no smoking ever, no drugs everActive duty MarineOver the last 2 months, I started having severe stomach pains and have been unable to eat or drink very much which resulted in me loosing 25 lbs. I started vomiting what appeared to be reddish brownish stuff last Tuesday with coffee ground looking things in it that smelled like rotten metallic feces. I went to the ER and had blood work and a CT scan. The scan showed my small intestines were inflamed in some areas, and the blood work that was available immediately showed my bilirubin and coagulation levels are high, which they already knew because I appeared to have jaundice.I checked my online tricare portal for the results of the blood test and UA that took a few days to come back and I learned that my Lipase level is low (66), BUN is high (21), sodium is low (105), Glucose is high (105), bilirubin total (2.7) and direct (.40) are both high, UA RBC is high (67), UA spec gravity is high (1.041), and that Ketones, blood and protein were all moderately present in my urine.I did my best to google what all that meant and all I learned is that there is possibly something wrong with my liver, kidneys, and pancreas. The reason I am extremely confused is that someone at the naval hospital scheduled me to see a RT? This was not communicated to me. I just happened to see it on my patient portal. I knew about the GI doctor referral but why would I need to see a RT? Also, based on what info Ive given, what seems the most likely to be wrong with me?

Output: Gastritis or esophagitis. PPI should help. Follow up with GI doctor. Can't comment on rest

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Results of blood tests show abnormal for a lot of things and I was randomly scheduled to see a respiratory therapist. Please help me understand25 year old male 62 181 lbsNo alcohol ever, no smoking ever, no drugs everActive duty MarineOver the last 2 months, I started having severe stomach pains and have been unable to eat or drink very much which resulted in me loosing 25 lbs. I started vomiting what appeared to be reddish brownish stuff last Tuesday with coffee ground looking things in it that smelled like rotten metallic feces. I went to the ER and had blood work and a CT scan. The scan showed my small intestines were inflamed in some areas, and the blood work that was available immediately showed my bilirubin and coagulation levels are high, which they already knew because I appeared to have jaundice.I checked my online tricare portal for the results of the blood test and UA that took a few days to come back and I learned that my Lipase level is low (66), BUN is high (21), sodium is low (105), Glucose is high (105), bilirubin total (2.7) and direct (.40) are both high, UA RBC is high (67), UA spec gravity is high (1.041), and that Ketones, blood and protein were all moderately present in my urine.I did my best to google what all that meant and all I learned is that there is possibly something wrong with my liver, kidneys, and pancreas. The reason I am extremely confused is that someone at the naval hospital scheduled me to see a RT? This was not communicated to me. I just happened to see it on my patient portal. I knew about the GI doctor referral but why would I need to see a RT? Also, based on what info Ive given, what seems the most likely to be wrong with me?. ### Response: Gastritis or esophagitis. PPI should help. Follow up with GI doctor. Can't comment on rest.


Instruction: Thank you for responding! The surgeon also said he is thinking Gastritis. The ER doctor prescribed protonix for home until follow up with GI on the 8th of March

Output: Omeprazole . Good luck

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Thank you for responding! The surgeon also said he is thinking Gastritis. The ER doctor prescribed protonix for home until follow up with GI on the 8th of March. ### Response: Omeprazole . Good luck.


Instruction: I have respiratory sinus arrhythmia in my late 20s, is this still normal? RHR is 54bpm and BP is 110/7026 male, when I breathe in my HR goes up, when I breath out it drops drastically. Most devices clock my RHR at mid 50s bpm. Now it goes up no problem, when I workout it goes up quickly but it also drops fast too. I can go from 160 running a mile and sit down and 40 seconds later its 59 bpm (verified by the good old fashioned finger) I do get lightheaded occasionally but its very much tied to anxiety when I do so not really something that I relate to a heart related issue. Im just curious if this is worrisome? I read respiratory sinus arrhythmia usually goes away in early adulthood but I certainly still have it. Ive had a echocardiogram a few years back (unrelated screening) and it was totally normal. A holter monitor as part of the same screening was fine beyond a few hundred PACs a day and a few dozen PVCs which doc said are normal findings.Anyway is anything worrisome about my heart rate and the breathing affect the HR?

Output: Nope, not worrying.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I have respiratory sinus arrhythmia in my late 20s, is this still normal? RHR is 54bpm and BP is 110/7026 male, when I breathe in my HR goes up, when I breath out it drops drastically. Most devices clock my RHR at mid 50s bpm. Now it goes up no problem, when I workout it goes up quickly but it also drops fast too. I can go from 160 running a mile and sit down and 40 seconds later its 59 bpm (verified by the good old fashioned finger) I do get lightheaded occasionally but its very much tied to anxiety when I do so not really something that I relate to a heart related issue. Im just curious if this is worrisome? I read respiratory sinus arrhythmia usually goes away in early adulthood but I certainly still have it. Ive had a echocardiogram a few years back (unrelated screening) and it was totally normal. A holter monitor as part of the same screening was fine beyond a few hundred PACs a day and a few dozen PVCs which doc said are normal findings.Anyway is anything worrisome about my heart rate and the breathing affect the HR?. ### Response: Nope, not worrying..


Instruction: What kind of viruses cause respiratory and gastric symptomsSo my poor baby, (M, one year old, 28 pounds, no underlying conditions) has been sick for 2 days. 101 fever, diarrhea, vomited once, runny and stuffy nose and a slight cough. I also believe his throat may be sore but it's hard to tell. He just tested negative for flu and covid so I'm wonderimg what types of virus cause these diverse symptoms. I'm not super worried because Hes holding down his drinks, and still being playful through out the day. Hes just napping a lot more and not really eating. Any idea what kind of bug he got? No one else in the house is sick and we don't leave the house other than for work.

Output: Usually in this age either RSV, adenovirus or rhinovirus

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: What kind of viruses cause respiratory and gastric symptomsSo my poor baby, (M, one year old, 28 pounds, no underlying conditions) has been sick for 2 days. 101 fever, diarrhea, vomited once, runny and stuffy nose and a slight cough. I also believe his throat may be sore but it's hard to tell. He just tested negative for flu and covid so I'm wonderimg what types of virus cause these diverse symptoms. I'm not super worried because Hes holding down his drinks, and still being playful through out the day. Hes just napping a lot more and not really eating. Any idea what kind of bug he got? No one else in the house is sick and we don't leave the house other than for work.. ### Response: Usually in this age either RSV, adenovirus or rhinovirus.


Instruction: They didn't test him for RSV but now I wish I asked! My 3 year old had it at his age but he was REALLY sick. My little guy is just really run down but still acting fairly normal. Whatever the diagnoses is, won't really change the treatment though so I'm not gonna stress too much :) thanks for the response!

Output: Posts by unflaired users that claim or strongly imply legitimacy by virtue of professional medical experience are not allowed.If you are a medical professional who wishes to become a verified contributor to this subreddit, please message the moderators with a link to a picture of your medical ID, student ID, diploma, or other form of verification. Imgur.com is convenient, but you can host anywhere. Please block out personal information, such as your name and picture. You must include your reddit username in the photo!We do not accept digital forms of identification.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: They didn't test him for RSV but now I wish I asked! My 3 year old had it at his age but he was REALLY sick. My little guy is just really run down but still acting fairly normal. Whatever the diagnoses is, won't really change the treatment though so I'm not gonna stress too much :) thanks for the response!. ### Response: Posts by unflaired users that claim or strongly imply legitimacy by virtue of professional medical experience are not allowed.If you are a medical professional who wishes to become a verified contributor to this subreddit, please message the moderators with a link to a picture of your medical ID, student ID, diploma, or other form of verification. Imgur.com is convenient, but you can host anywhere. Please block out personal information, such as your name and picture. You must include your reddit username in the photo!We do not accept digital forms of identification..


Instruction: COVID19 megathread #4READ THIS FIRSTthis was written by u/nowweareall to try to answer some common questions about COVID-19. We will try to answer any other questions you may have.Do not ask what your personal risk is due to whatever medical condition you might have. We simply dont know. Read whats written below - age is the most important factor in determining someones risk of severe disease (ie needing hospital admission) or death.Do not list your symptoms and ask if we can tell you whether you have COVID-19 or what precautionary measures you should take - we cant. You should follow you local public health guidance. If in doubt, isolate and only go to the hospital if absolutely necessary. Read below for more information.Clearly people arent actually reading this and just asking the above anyway, Im no longer going to reply to these questions. I generally reply to all questions, if I havent replied to yours its because youre either asking the above or your answer is contained within this post.What is it?COVID-19 means coronavirus disease 19 (as it was first reported to the WHO on NYE in 2019). It is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2).Why is it so bad?COVID-19 is very contagious. Current data suggests an R0 (that is the number of people an infected person will go onto infect) of 2.5-3. By comparison your average seasonal flu with have an R0 of about 1.3. To put this into perspective, if you start with 10 people infected with seasonal flu, over ten infection cycles youll end up with about 138 infected people. With COVID-19 over the same ten cycles youll end up with tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of infected people. Bear in mind this is not what is going to happen, only what could happen if the a disease was left to spread without effort to slow it. Public health measures to contain it can massively reduce the actual transmission rate.How come more people dont have it?We only know how many confirmed cases we have. For every one person who is ill enough to be tested theres a large group who have mild symptoms only and arent tested. This number varies wildly but seems to be about 1 in 10 (ie for every confirmed case theres another 9 people out there who have COVID but arent symptomatic enough to get tested.How do I know if I have it?The most common symptoms are a fever and a persistent cough. Other flu like symptoms may be experienced. It will be very variable from one person to another. The only way to know is to be tested - access to that depends on whats being done where you live.Can I find out if Ive had it already?Right now no. There is a test in development.Am I going to die?About 1 in 8 of the KNOWN cases (ie only those who are confirmed to have COVID) will end up being hospitalised. About 1 in 6 of this group will become critically ill and need to be managed on an ICU. Of this ICU group about half will die.For the 7 out of 8 cases who arent hospitalised the symptoms are mild enough to be managed at home. Remember for each of these people theres another 8-9 who arent even aware they have it. Some people have no symptoms, for others its the same and a bout of flu.The good news is if youre young youll probably be fine. Young adults and children have excellent survival rates with deaths very rare. Older people on the other hand are at much greater risk. Amongst the 60-69yr age group mortality is around 3%, whilst in the over 80s its approaching 15% (again of confirmed cases).I have a co-morbidity!The biggest risk factor for higher mortality seems to be cardiovascular disease, followed by diabetes and hypertension, then chronic respiratory disease such as COPD.Age remains the biggest risk factor by far, if youre young and you have one of these that doesnt mean youre going to die. It would be sensible to minimise your exposure.Can I go out?All these restrictions on movement are about slowing spread. The big problem for hospitals now is a sudden tsunami of critically ill people that the usual ICU capacity cant cope with. Think of it like taking a train - go rush hour on a week day and its packed and you cant get a seat, much quieter in the middle of the day. Go on a weekend and theres no early morning peak so the passengers are divided amongst more trains thus everyone sits down, even though a similar number of people travel over the course of the day. If we can slow the rate if infection ultimately therell be the same number of cases but they wont all come at once so the hospitals will be able to manage them. Make sense?Every country is different so you should follow your local guidelines. Doctors on this forum come from all over the world, what is right where they live may not be right for you.What can I do to minimise my risk?Wash your hands. Regularly. Avoid large gatherings. Follow local rules and guidance. If you have symptoms then stay away from other people. Take this seriously, because it is.Do not ask if we can tell you whether you have COVID based on your symptoms alone - we cant.Should I stop taking my medication?There have been media reports that people taking certain types of mediation, specifically ACE inhibitors/A2RBs (eg ramipril/losartan) or NSAIDs (eg ibuprofen) are at higher risk of catching or complications of COVID. To our knowledge there is no good data to support this. You should continue to take your medication as normal unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.What is my risk?We can't answer that. The data available aren't thorough and granular enough, and we don't have full information, and that can't be calculated accurately even for the best-characterized diseases. All that we can say is repetition of the guidelines from the CDC and WHO websites, or other major organizations. Some comorbidities increase your risk. We can't say anything more individualized than that.What should I do [especially with individual risk factors]?There are no secret super-precautions to take. The recommendations are the same for everyone: wash your hands, don't touch your face, practice social distancing. It's more important for you, personally, if you have higher risk, but it's good advice for everyone. It reduces your risk of getting COVID-19, and it reduces your risk of spreading COVID-19 to someone who is higher risk than you.So a lot of people have reported reduced lung capacity after having recovered from COVID-19, as with pneumonia. Would it be beneficial to practice breathing exercises like the ones listed here, both prior to infection and also after recovery?

Output: Certainly won't be harmful.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: COVID19 megathread #4READ THIS FIRSTthis was written by u/nowweareall to try to answer some common questions about COVID-19. We will try to answer any other questions you may have.Do not ask what your personal risk is due to whatever medical condition you might have. We simply dont know. Read whats written below - age is the most important factor in determining someones risk of severe disease (ie needing hospital admission) or death.Do not list your symptoms and ask if we can tell you whether you have COVID-19 or what precautionary measures you should take - we cant. You should follow you local public health guidance. If in doubt, isolate and only go to the hospital if absolutely necessary. Read below for more information.Clearly people arent actually reading this and just asking the above anyway, Im no longer going to reply to these questions. I generally reply to all questions, if I havent replied to yours its because youre either asking the above or your answer is contained within this post.What is it?COVID-19 means coronavirus disease 19 (as it was first reported to the WHO on NYE in 2019). It is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2).Why is it so bad?COVID-19 is very contagious. Current data suggests an R0 (that is the number of people an infected person will go onto infect) of 2.5-3. By comparison your average seasonal flu with have an R0 of about 1.3. To put this into perspective, if you start with 10 people infected with seasonal flu, over ten infection cycles youll end up with about 138 infected people. With COVID-19 over the same ten cycles youll end up with tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of infected people. Bear in mind this is not what is going to happen, only what could happen if the a disease was left to spread without effort to slow it. Public health measures to contain it can massively reduce the actual transmission rate.How come more people dont have it?We only know how many confirmed cases we have. For every one person who is ill enough to be tested theres a large group who have mild symptoms only and arent tested. This number varies wildly but seems to be about 1 in 10 (ie for every confirmed case theres another 9 people out there who have COVID but arent symptomatic enough to get tested.How do I know if I have it?The most common symptoms are a fever and a persistent cough. Other flu like symptoms may be experienced. It will be very variable from one person to another. The only way to know is to be tested - access to that depends on whats being done where you live.Can I find out if Ive had it already?Right now no. There is a test in development.Am I going to die?About 1 in 8 of the KNOWN cases (ie only those who are confirmed to have COVID) will end up being hospitalised. About 1 in 6 of this group will become critically ill and need to be managed on an ICU. Of this ICU group about half will die.For the 7 out of 8 cases who arent hospitalised the symptoms are mild enough to be managed at home. Remember for each of these people theres another 8-9 who arent even aware they have it. Some people have no symptoms, for others its the same and a bout of flu.The good news is if youre young youll probably be fine. Young adults and children have excellent survival rates with deaths very rare. Older people on the other hand are at much greater risk. Amongst the 60-69yr age group mortality is around 3%, whilst in the over 80s its approaching 15% (again of confirmed cases).I have a co-morbidity!The biggest risk factor for higher mortality seems to be cardiovascular disease, followed by diabetes and hypertension, then chronic respiratory disease such as COPD.Age remains the biggest risk factor by far, if youre young and you have one of these that doesnt mean youre going to die. It would be sensible to minimise your exposure.Can I go out?All these restrictions on movement are about slowing spread. The big problem for hospitals now is a sudden tsunami of critically ill people that the usual ICU capacity cant cope with. Think of it like taking a train - go rush hour on a week day and its packed and you cant get a seat, much quieter in the middle of the day. Go on a weekend and theres no early morning peak so the passengers are divided amongst more trains thus everyone sits down, even though a similar number of people travel over the course of the day. If we can slow the rate if infection ultimately therell be the same number of cases but they wont all come at once so the hospitals will be able to manage them. Make sense?Every country is different so you should follow your local guidelines. Doctors on this forum come from all over the world, what is right where they live may not be right for you.What can I do to minimise my risk?Wash your hands. Regularly. Avoid large gatherings. Follow local rules and guidance. If you have symptoms then stay away from other people. Take this seriously, because it is.Do not ask if we can tell you whether you have COVID based on your symptoms alone - we cant.Should I stop taking my medication?There have been media reports that people taking certain types of mediation, specifically ACE inhibitors/A2RBs (eg ramipril/losartan) or NSAIDs (eg ibuprofen) are at higher risk of catching or complications of COVID. To our knowledge there is no good data to support this. You should continue to take your medication as normal unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.What is my risk?We can't answer that. The data available aren't thorough and granular enough, and we don't have full information, and that can't be calculated accurately even for the best-characterized diseases. All that we can say is repetition of the guidelines from the CDC and WHO websites, or other major organizations. Some comorbidities increase your risk. We can't say anything more individualized than that.What should I do [especially with individual risk factors]?There are no secret super-precautions to take. The recommendations are the same for everyone: wash your hands, don't touch your face, practice social distancing. It's more important for you, personally, if you have higher risk, but it's good advice for everyone. It reduces your risk of getting COVID-19, and it reduces your risk of spreading COVID-19 to someone who is higher risk than you.So a lot of people have reported reduced lung capacity after having recovered from COVID-19, as with pneumonia. Would it be beneficial to practice breathing exercises like the ones listed here, both prior to infection and also after recovery?. ### Response: Certainly won't be harmful..


Instruction: Is it okay to go outside to a park? There's a park near my home that is never busy even when the world is normal. Can I go there and have a walk on my own or is it better to just stay inside?

Output: Yes, that should be fine. Please avoid playground structures, public water fountains, etc.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Is it okay to go outside to a park? There's a park near my home that is never busy even when the world is normal. Can I go there and have a walk on my own or is it better to just stay inside?. ### Response: Yes, that should be fine. Please avoid playground structures, public water fountains, etc..


Instruction: the reason the goverment and every expert is saying dont use mask is to avoid having shortage for the professionals. Can you imagine if they actually recommended using masks? we already have a shortage. thats what I believe anyways..

Output: Please remember we can't answer every question, especially those about whether you might or not have a case yourself.For general questions that we might be able to answer and that aren't explained in government and international websites, ask here. If you're asking a lot about your or loved ones' individual risk, look at the resources from reputable sources, like the sites linked in the original post here. We don't know better than the information provided, and we can't provide individual consultation to everyone.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: the reason the goverment and every expert is saying dont use mask is to avoid having shortage for the professionals. Can you imagine if they actually recommended using masks? we already have a shortage. thats what I believe anyways... ### Response: Please remember we can't answer every question, especially those about whether you might or not have a case yourself.For general questions that we might be able to answer and that aren't explained in government and international websites, ask here. If you're asking a lot about your or loved ones' individual risk, look at the resources from reputable sources, like the sites linked in the original post here. We don't know better than the information provided, and we can't provide individual consultation to everyone..


Instruction: Please help. Question about THERAPY for person tested POSITIVE. How to treat?A person I know (with whom I had no contact) has just tested positive. He's not being recovered at the hospital but he's had a very high fever for more than ten days.He's been treated with antibiotics so far: Fidato and Trissyl for about ten days after first negative tampon no improvement. Now after a second test - POSITIVE, they switched to Klacid and Augmentin antibiotics. He doesn't have respiratory issues so far so won't be taken to the hospital.What do you think of these meds? Please can you name any anti virals/ therapies that can be used as a cure?I heard some improved after Tocilizumab (anti arthritis)It would just be useful to understand what options might be taken and I'd like to have opinions from Docs abroad. Thank you so much. I'd appreciate

Output: If they're treated at home, there is no approved treatment. It's all highly experimental. Chloroquine is used first, tocilizumab is more of a hail Mary treatment because it's very expensive.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Please help. Question about THERAPY for person tested POSITIVE. How to treat?A person I know (with whom I had no contact) has just tested positive. He's not being recovered at the hospital but he's had a very high fever for more than ten days.He's been treated with antibiotics so far: Fidato and Trissyl for about ten days after first negative tampon no improvement. Now after a second test - POSITIVE, they switched to Klacid and Augmentin antibiotics. He doesn't have respiratory issues so far so won't be taken to the hospital.What do you think of these meds? Please can you name any anti virals/ therapies that can be used as a cure?I heard some improved after Tocilizumab (anti arthritis)It would just be useful to understand what options might be taken and I'd like to have opinions from Docs abroad. Thank you so much. I'd appreciate. ### Response: If they're treated at home, there is no approved treatment. It's all highly experimental. Chloroquine is used first, tocilizumab is more of a hail Mary treatment because it's very expensive..


Instruction: I tested negative for covid but I do have a virus and all the symptoms that go along with that. The doctor that swabbed me didnt swab my nose but my throat. Last weekI took an ambulance trip because I had chest pain and I could barely breathe. They sent me home with alot tests done and looking good. White blood cell count good etc. So should I treat this as any other virus? Obviously I have been physically isolating myself for almost 2 weeks because thats when my symotoms started. Now Ive been feeling much better and only have shortness of breath.I really want to visit my sister and neice. How long before Im not infectious?

Output: Yes, you can treat it as any other virus.Honestly, please don't visit your sister and niece right now. Only leave your house for essentials. This is not a time for socializing.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I tested negative for covid but I do have a virus and all the symptoms that go along with that. The doctor that swabbed me didnt swab my nose but my throat. Last weekI took an ambulance trip because I had chest pain and I could barely breathe. They sent me home with alot tests done and looking good. White blood cell count good etc. So should I treat this as any other virus? Obviously I have been physically isolating myself for almost 2 weeks because thats when my symotoms started. Now Ive been feeling much better and only have shortness of breath.I really want to visit my sister and neice. How long before Im not infectious?. ### Response: Yes, you can treat it as any other virus.Honestly, please don't visit your sister and niece right now. Only leave your house for essentials. This is not a time for socializing..


Instruction: Some Asthmatics apparently are being told to increase their Asthma medicine dose to "prepare" if you get corona... But my doctor (who I trust) said not to do this. Increase in Asthma medicine dose won't help and increasing your dose when your Asthma is controlled well in never a good idea.Anyone wanna weigh in? I can't imagine increasing Asthma steroids will help prevent or lessen symptoms if you get corona... Or any lung infection

Output: I'm with your doctor.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Some Asthmatics apparently are being told to increase their Asthma medicine dose to "prepare" if you get corona... But my doctor (who I trust) said not to do this. Increase in Asthma medicine dose won't help and increasing your dose when your Asthma is controlled well in never a good idea.Anyone wanna weigh in? I can't imagine increasing Asthma steroids will help prevent or lessen symptoms if you get corona... Or any lung infection. ### Response: I'm with your doctor..


Instruction: I'm aware that people are recommended to stay away from taking ibuprofen, cortisone, and other anti-inflammatory drugs. But does this also apply to supplements? For example, St. John's Wort, green tea, and turmeric are all supposed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Would it be better to avoid or limit their consumption at this time?

Output: Most health care groups have not made any recommendations regarding ibuprofen or other NSAIDs. We simply don't have the information to be able to recommend one way or another. If you have been taking these supplements, it should be fine to continue taking them.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I'm aware that people are recommended to stay away from taking ibuprofen, cortisone, and other anti-inflammatory drugs. But does this also apply to supplements? For example, St. John's Wort, green tea, and turmeric are all supposed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Would it be better to avoid or limit their consumption at this time?. ### Response: Most health care groups have not made any recommendations regarding ibuprofen or other NSAIDs. We simply don't have the information to be able to recommend one way or another. If you have been taking these supplements, it should be fine to continue taking them..


Instruction: SoCal surgeon here.. I would. I do take off my shoes before coming into my home. I'm also leaving amazon packages in the garage for at least a day. New England Journal of Medicine just published data on virus survival on surfaces and air.NEJM says SARS-COV2 coronavirus survives:3 hours in air4 hours on copper24 hours on cardboard3 days on plastic or stainless steel.Here's the source:https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMc2004973?fbclid=IwAR0J1UVMFKkWUq3s4lYPJ2guckp8lGel-0b2ApPysnlr_qR7Xa9vMvD5rjQ

Output: Posts by unflaired users that claim legitimacy by virtue of professional medical experience are not allowed.If you are a medical professional who wishes to become a verified contributor to this subreddit, please message the moderators with a link to a picture of your medical ID, student ID, diploma, or other form of verification. Imgur.com is convenient, but you can host anywhere. Please block out personal information, such as your name and picture. You must include your reddit username in the photo!We do not accept digital forms of identification.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: SoCal surgeon here.. I would. I do take off my shoes before coming into my home. I'm also leaving amazon packages in the garage for at least a day. New England Journal of Medicine just published data on virus survival on surfaces and air.NEJM says SARS-COV2 coronavirus survives:3 hours in air4 hours on copper24 hours on cardboard3 days on plastic or stainless steel.Here's the source:https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMc2004973?fbclid=IwAR0J1UVMFKkWUq3s4lYPJ2guckp8lGel-0b2ApPysnlr_qR7Xa9vMvD5rjQ. ### Response: Posts by unflaired users that claim legitimacy by virtue of professional medical experience are not allowed.If you are a medical professional who wishes to become a verified contributor to this subreddit, please message the moderators with a link to a picture of your medical ID, student ID, diploma, or other form of verification. Imgur.com is convenient, but you can host anywhere. Please block out personal information, such as your name and picture. You must include your reddit username in the photo!We do not accept digital forms of identification..


Instruction: I'm already on 400mg Plaquenil for inflammatory poly arthritis. Assuming it's helpful for COVID19, is this offering me extra protection? Note: I am not looking for way around any guidelines, we are being very strict with social distancing, disinfecting high touch surfaces daily, and following our stay at home orders. I'm more curious, really! And wondering if it's safer for me to be the one who goes to the grocery store when needed. Thanks!

Output: Impossible to answer. We simply don't have data to show whether this would be effective as prophylaxis even if we knew it worked against COVID-19.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I'm already on 400mg Plaquenil for inflammatory poly arthritis. Assuming it's helpful for COVID19, is this offering me extra protection? Note: I am not looking for way around any guidelines, we are being very strict with social distancing, disinfecting high touch surfaces daily, and following our stay at home orders. I'm more curious, really! And wondering if it's safer for me to be the one who goes to the grocery store when needed. Thanks!. ### Response: Impossible to answer. We simply don't have data to show whether this would be effective as prophylaxis even if we knew it worked against COVID-19..


Instruction: I am a male in my 20s and use Fluticasone nasal spray for post nasal drip. I heard that this has immunosuppressant qualities. I am otherwise healthy. Should I worry about this and consider stopping the medication until the virus is under control?

Output: No worries about nasal steroids

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: I am a male in my 20s and use Fluticasone nasal spray for post nasal drip. I heard that this has immunosuppressant qualities. I am otherwise healthy. Should I worry about this and consider stopping the medication until the virus is under control?. ### Response: No worries about nasal steroids.


Instruction: If our whole household has Coronavirus, do we still need to isolate from each other?

Output: No that's pointless

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: If our whole household has Coronavirus, do we still need to isolate from each other?. ### Response: No that's pointless.


Instruction: How bad do we let things get before going to hospital? I have a sore throat, headache, and a dry cough and my husband has the same + congestion and a little SOB. Both of us feel okay enough right now but I want to be prepared. Hes also traveling for work (non shut down state and he works alone so no exposing others), and Im trying to keep close tabs on him.

Output: Same point when you'd go to the hospital for any other illness - when you feel that your symptoms are dangerous and/or life-threatening.

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: How bad do we let things get before going to hospital? I have a sore throat, headache, and a dry cough and my husband has the same + congestion and a little SOB. Both of us feel okay enough right now but I want to be prepared. Hes also traveling for work (non shut down state and he works alone so no exposing others), and Im trying to keep close tabs on him.. ### Response: Same point when you'd go to the hospital for any other illness - when you feel that your symptoms are dangerous and/or life-threatening..


Instruction: Can my doctor share results/status of my COVID-19 test with my employer without my permission?I was directly exposed to COVID-19 and my employer has me off work for 14 days. I got tested at my local health center (surprisingly)My employer wanted proof I was tested, I guess I took too long to provide and they called my doctor. My doctor let them know that I was tested.When my results come in, can they share they info with my employer? How do I request my doctor not share my info with my employer? Of course I will tell my employer, but I want to tell them.This is already a weird time as Im getting texts from HR everyday asking how Im doing and it all feels so invasive

Output: No patient confidentiality prohibits this, unless your employer pays the bills (but even then you'd have to give permission)

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: Can my doctor share results/status of my COVID-19 test with my employer without my permission?I was directly exposed to COVID-19 and my employer has me off work for 14 days. I got tested at my local health center (surprisingly)My employer wanted proof I was tested, I guess I took too long to provide and they called my doctor. My doctor let them know that I was tested.When my results come in, can they share they info with my employer? How do I request my doctor not share my info with my employer? Of course I will tell my employer, but I want to tell them.This is already a weird time as Im getting texts from HR everyday asking how Im doing and it all feels so invasive. ### Response: No patient confidentiality prohibits this, unless your employer pays the bills (but even then you'd have to give permission).


Instruction: The gist of this is that I want to know whether or not I should be worried assuming I were to get COVID-19. I'm not worried about spreading it, that shouldn't be a problem, but just in case I did find myself sick, I do want to know how bad it might hit me.When I was younger I had a bad throat infection that took weeks to get rid of and came back I think twice, and since then a good amount of illnesses I've gotten have come with a lot of pain and swelling in my throat, but not infection. I've heard that this can hit people with respiratory issues quite hard, but because this isn't a respiratory issue, I don't know if this might also be a problem.I should note that I have had what I believe was an asthma attack, almost a decade a go at school. I don't know for sure because it only lasted a few seconds, during which time I couldn't convey to anyone that I wasn't able to breath due to the fact that I wasn't able to breath, and being an idiotic kid I just was like "well that happened, I don't want to have to be one of those dorks carrying around a puffer throughout school so I'm just going to pretend it didn't." I haven't had anything like that happen since, and that was the first time it happened, but I don't know if I need to actually talk to a doctor about that. I'm really more worried about the throat problems, because I get them a lot, but if this is something I should also be concerned about I would like to know.

Output: You are not a risk group

Below is an instruction that describes a task. Write a response that appropriately completes the request. ### Instruction: The gist of this is that I want to know whether or not I should be worried assuming I were to get COVID-19. I'm not worried about spreading it, that shouldn't be a problem, but just in case I did find myself sick, I do want to know how bad it might hit me.When I was younger I had a bad throat infection that took weeks to get rid of and came back I think twice, and since then a good amount of illnesses I've gotten have come with a lot of pain and swelling in my throat, but not infection. I've heard that this can hit people with respiratory issues quite hard, but because this isn't a respiratory issue, I don't know if this might also be a problem.I should note that I have had what I believe was an asthma attack, almost a decade a go at school. I don't know for sure because it only lasted a few seconds, during which time I couldn't convey to anyone that I wasn't able to breath due to the fact that I wasn't able to breath, and being an idiotic kid I just was like "well that happened, I don't want to have to be one of those dorks carrying around a puffer throughout school so I'm just going to pretend it didn't." I haven't had anything like that happen since, and that was the first time it happened, but I don't know if I need to actually talk to a doctor about that. I'm really more worried about the throat problems, because I get them a lot, but if this is something I should also be concerned about I would like to know.. ### Response: You are not a risk group.