VA makes preparation efforts for coronavirus
March 03, 2020
With the fast-spread of virus COVID-19, a new coronavirus, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says it is adequately prepared and confident in its ability to handle it.
The agency refused extra government funds at this time and is focusing on strengthening its supply chains and testing its processes, said Department Secretary Robert Wilkie. However, other VA officials questioned the department’s ability to handle a real Coronavirus pandemic scenario, saying that if other healthcare systems begin to break down VA healthcare facilities could begin to struggle.
Currently, the VA is responsible for the healthcare of nine million veterans and military service members. An American soldier stationed in South Korea is the first member of the military to test positive for Coronavirus. In the United States there have been 42,839 Coronavirus cases.
COVID-19 causes respiratory symptoms like those associated with the common cold and flu. It spreads similarly to the cold and flu too, through close contact and infected droplets in air and on surfaces. So far there has been a wide range in severity for those with the virus. Some experience mild symptoms while others have serious complications, and some have died.
Handwashing and other common-sense practices can slow the spread of this coronavirus significantly. The VA urges anyone who has cold or flu-like symptoms, fever, cough or shortness of breath to call before physically going into any local VA healthcare facility. There is an option to speak directly with a nurse when calling a local VA facility. The nurse can assess symptoms and circumstances, such as recent travel, and advise on the best thing to do.
The VA’s newly expanded telehealth and virtual care options are also recommended for being accessed by a VA medical professional without leaving home.