Coronavirus: A Story From the Front Lines

Symptoms

COVID-19 presents a wide array of symptoms, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Antoinette Ward describes patients who initially think they have allergies but experience unusual symptoms like persistent shortness of breath and fatigue. These symptoms often lead to positive COVID-19 tests, especially in those with pre-existing conditions 1. She highlights the challenge of tracing the virus's origin, as many patients have no known contact with infected individuals.

The scary part for us is when they retrace their steps, they don't have known contact with anyone else that's positive.

--- Dr. Antoinette Ward

The hospital has set up special isolation areas for critically ill patients, reminiscent of those used during the Ebola outbreak, to manage the increasing number of severe cases 1.

   

Sacrifices

Healthcare workers face immense personal sacrifices while battling the pandemic. Dr. Ward shares the emotional toll of balancing her professional duties with family life, especially as the pandemic disrupts significant events for her daughter 2. She and her team are preparing for a prolonged battle, planning for at least six months of intense patient care and support.

It's a struggle. It is definitely a struggle of how do you stay happy, how do you keep your peace when there's a lot going on?

--- Dr. Antoinette Ward

Despite the challenges, they remain committed to supporting each other and their patients through this crisis 2.