I HAVE missed writing for the past three weeks. Sad to say, I was hit by Covid-19 Omicron. I was wrong to perceive its symptoms due to the flu. However, the fever was persistent, and I had difficulty breathing. Hence, the decision for us - my husband, my two kids, and I - to have a swab test home service from a very competent private laboratory.
But even before the swab testing, my cellphone was flooded with messages telling me I needed hospitalization. I told them they did not have to worry because having the said symptoms was not new to me. It was like those years before the pandemic when I was hospitalized with pneumonia as the medical diagnosis.
So, when we received the result through email, I did not worry for myself, but I feared that it would harm my loved ones. I have prayed that we will be in the same place for the needed quarantine, and I am glad that it was granted. So allow me to share my insights while in quarantine.
Firstly, I have learned that no matter how we try to protect ourselves by refusing to go to the malls or in any place, we can still have the Covid-19. I thought “staying at home” would spare us from this pandemic disease. We can choose not to have the disease, but the disease will choose us without warning.
Secondly, I have realized that my knowledge as a health educator will not protect me, my children, and everyone else 100% from this Covid-19. I know about its predisposing, precipitating factors, and symptoms. Still, it will not be that easy not to acquire the illness. Knowledge is essential but not a guarantee not to contract the disease.
Thirdly, I understand how it is essential to strictly use personal protective equipment. That is why wherever I go, and even my family members, bringing extra and wearing masks always became one of our rigid house rules. Honestly, I felt more protected during those times when the use of a face mask was a must.
Fourthly, I still firmly believe that self-hygiene, which is not only not bathing but also frequent handwashing, remains essential to prevent infection. I feel that we should be mindful of the attitude of self-protection to protect others too.
Fifthly, I knew that having pneumonia with diabetes mellitus and at the same time Covid-19 is alarming.
The chest pain, difficulty in breathing, dry cough, and fluid retention visible in my face and extremities were evident. But I was sad that I could not be hospitalized due to no vacant beds. Luckily, as fully vaccinated with a booster doze, it had greatly helped me battle the Covid-19.
Sixthly, I hope that we understand that if we become lenient in following the rules set by the Department of Health to prevent Covid-19, this pandemic will not end. And it will continue to cause us trouble, worries, and pains. So, be vigilant, even though its incidence at times is decreasing.
Lastly, I felt very blessed that even though I was not admitted to the hospital for care and treatment, God was so good to give me the best doctors in town for free. I would like to thank Dr. Abe Jun Versoza, Dr. Joey Villanueva, Dr. Cary Amiel Villanueva, and Dr. Carmelle Ayra Ferrer. I do not know how to thank them all.
Day and night, they checked about my condition and prescribed me the needed medications. God, I am so blessed!