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By: Jen Russon

In a new weekly series that began on Monday, Coral Springs Medical Director Dr. Peter Antevy, and Emergency Management Director Alex Falcone answered questions from concerned residents about COVID-19.

The first thing they assured residents is not to get preoccupied with the number of cases diagnosed in Coral Springs, since many young adults and children are asymptomatic and do not yet realize they are carriers of the virus.

The doctors said the Department of Health has information on infected Floridians and that these figures are not shared with city staff.

Antevy said that persons with mild symptoms of coughing, fever, aches, and pains are not currently being referred for COVID-19 tests; however, those experiencing difficulty breathing or discomfort in the lower respiratory tract should call Coral Springs Parkland Fire Department, and would be tested following admittance to the hospital.

While two testing centers have opened in Miramar and West Palm Beach, and Coral Springs is slated to get one as well, no one will be given a COVID-19 test without a medical doctor’s paper referral.

When a resident asked if anti-inflammatories, like Ibuprofen and Advil, were potentially life-threatening to patients with coronavirus, Antevy said this has not yet been proven. Still, data does suggest these patients are better off treating their symptoms with Tylenol and other acetaminophen medications.

Tylenol is recommended for people with compromised immune systems, stemming from things like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and thyroid problems.

Antevy reminded viewers that young people who exhibit no symptoms could be vectors of the virus and pass COVID-19 onto elderly persons who are more likely to develop a severe case of this virus.

“Stay away from young people at social gatherings, don’t go out unless you need to, and hunker down,” said Antevy, adding that it’s a good idea to wear a mask if you are a caregiver, and to sanitize surfaces with disinfectant wipes if you can.

The next Livestream will be held on Monday, March 23.