7 things you need to know about Coronovirus (COVID-19)

Monica McKitterick • March 4, 2020

As of today, there are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the state of Texas, but there has been at least one patient tested in Travis county. This makes the reality of this "pandemic" much more real as it strikes close to home. Impact Family Wellness is committed to staying up to date and keeping our members educated on the facts related to the spread of Coronavirus. We have complied a list of the top 7 things you need to know about COVID-19.

1. What is coronavirus?

- Coronavirus belongs to a family of viruses that primarily attack the upper respiratory system. This is not a new virus, just a new strain of an old virus. The common cold is a strand of the coronavirus, as well as SARS and MERS. They are basically all siblings of the same family.

2. How does it spread?

- The coronavirus family mainly spreads through respiratory droplets that are formed with someone infected with the virus coughs or sneezes. It is most commonly spread between people within 6 feet of one another.

3. What are the symptoms?

- Cough, fever, and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms. According to the CDC, 81% of people found to have COVID-19 have noted "mild to even no symptoms". Symptoms typically occur 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

4. Is there a treatment?

- There is not currently an antiviral on the market that treats COVID-19. Much like the common cold, it is all about symptom management with anti-inflammatories, cough medications, rest, and fluids.

5. How do I avoid getting it?

- WASH YOUR HANDS!!! Seriously, washing your hands is the #1 way to avoid coronavirus and any other infection out there.

- Avoid close contact with sick people

- Stay home when you are sick

- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw it in the trash

- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects (i.e. your phone, keyboard)

- Stop buying facemasks if you aren't sick! These are for sick people to reduce the spread, not for healthy people

6. Is there a test for it?

- Yes, and as of Monday, March 9th, Impact Family Wellness will have the supplies to perform the test. We do not have a cost of this test but will keep you updated as soon as we know.

7. What do I do if I get sick?

- This is the beauty of Impact Family Wellness . . . just send us a text or call! No need to come in. We can treat your symptoms over the phone and you don't even have to leave your house!

If you want more information make sure you are using a reliable source. Your friends on Facebook are not considered reliable :).

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html

https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public

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photo of chia seeds in water, yellow background

Chia Seed “Internal Shower”: A Primary Care Provider Weighs In

By Monica McKitterick • April 23, 2025

A viral Instagram video recently sparked concern after Dr. Sermed Mezher demonstrated how a simple scoop of dry chia seeds—once swallowed and chased with water—swelled in the esophagus and caused a dangerous blockage . It’s not the first time a wellness trend has outpaced the science behind it. Chia seed water, praised on TikTok for its so-called “internal shower” effects, has quickly gone from smoothie staple to internet sensation. But behind the aesthetic glass jars and lemon slices lies a very real question: is this actually good for your digestive health, or are we ignoring the risks? Monica McKitterick, FNP-C, founder and CEO of Impact Family Wellness , shares her take on the trending “internal shower” craze, the biology, and what patients need to know before jumping on the chia water bandwagon.

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A well-woman exam includes a health history review, physical exam, breast and pelvic checks, and screenings like Pap smears and STIs. Start in adolescence or when sexually active. Prepare by noting symptoms, listing medications, and avoiding intercourse before the exam. Some providers also screen for IPV.