COVID-19 Townhall Update - May 11, 2020

As we enter the ninth week of the new environment created by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, GBMC HealthCare and WBAL Radio teamed up to present a second Coronavirus Townhall Special where experts provided answers to the public’s questions.

Theodore Bailey, MD, JD, MA, Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases (at minute 1:50), discussed pediatric multi-symptom inflammatory syndrome and why children are not presenting with many symptoms of COVID-19. He also talked in depth about the concept of “herd immunity,” what to remember as restrictions are lifted in Maryland, and how COVID-19 is transmitted.

John B. Chessare, MD, MPH, President and CEO, GBMC HealthCare System (at minute 12:00), described GBMC’s supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), the timeline for resumption of elective medical procedures, and the importance of keeping up with scheduled screenings such as colonoscopies. GBMC HealthCare is taking all of the necessary precautions to keep patients safe, especially those who need routine screenings related to their age and risk.

Laura Clary, BSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A, Clinical Program Manager, SAFE & DV Program (at minute 18:50), explained the impact that COVID-19 has had on relationships and domestic violence cases and the steps GBMC’s Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) and Domestic Violence (DV) Program is taking to protect nurses, community partners, and patients from COVID-19. Laura also discussed the increase in calls to 24-hour hotlines, the ways some may be experiencing abuse, the impact of COVID-19 on child abuse reports, and what to do if you know someone affected by sexual assault or domestic violence.

Jeffrey Mindel, MD, Bay West Endocrinology Associates (at minute 28:30), provided information on the heightened risk for those with underlying conditions such as diabetes. He explained that for those with these conditions, social distancing is especially important as the symptoms can be worse for those at an increased risk. Dr. Mindel discussed the large population of those with diabetes (roughly 34 million Americans) and what makes a person with diabetes more susceptible to viral infections.