Q&A from College of Health Professions forum

Here are abridged questions and answers from the student forum held Friday, March 13 with Dr. Stephanie James, associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences.

Q. If someone is infected are they able to become infected again with COVID-19?

A. That information is not known yet

Q. Do you have a guess as to when we can see a decline in COVID-19?

A. Eight weeks is the estimate before we start to see a decline.

Q. Why are antivirals ineffective?

A. There are many different strains of viruses and the antiviral has to target the right strain.

Q. Will asking for prescriptions of Tamiflu help? Supplement with IgE?

A. Tamiflu has not come out to be an effective course of treatment for COVID-19. Look to the CDC guidelines.

Q. Does wearing a mask prevent COVID-19?

For masks to be effective, they need to be fitted to your face and the majority of masks purchased are not. It is recommended not to buy surgical masks because that is taking away resources from hospitals and medical providers.

Q. What if I have an immunosuppressed family member that I live with, will I still be required to go to my clinical site?

A. Please check with your professor.

Q. Since Regis is moving all classes online, are we able to travel home?

A. The CDC says not to travel unless absolutely necessary.

Q. How long does COVID-19 stay on surfaces?

A. CDC says it is possible for the virus to be active in surfaces from hours to days.

Q. How long until a person who tests positive for COVID-19 return to the public?

A. It is recommended a person have two negative tests, 24 hours apart and be symptom free.