July 11 Section B

The Leader • Saturday, July 11, 2020 • Page 1B

Coronavirus cases on rise in Houston: Here’s what residents need to know

Preferred Health DIRECTORY

By Katie McCallum Houston Methodist Hospital

There’s no denying it, coronavirus cases are rising in the Greater Houston area once again. The trend began about a month ago, just after Memorial Day weekend.

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, our community was united in its response to this virus. We were staying home. We were social distancing. We were wearing masks. We were monitoring our symptoms and not just assuming coughs and sore throats were allergies. These unified efforts resulted in Houston “lowering the curve” sooner than many other large cities — giving us the flexibility to slowly reopen businesses and restaurants in early May. But, reopening the city didn’t (and doesn’t) mean that we’re done with COVID-19. The new coronavirus is still among us, and, right now, warning signs are flashing in Houston.

Sooner rather later, we must reunite as a community and recommit to the extra precautions that helped us lower the curve at the beginning of this pandemic. In addition to staying up-to-date on the daily new COVID-19 cases in the Greater Houston area, here are three things to know as cases rise.

Social distancing is still a must We’re all adjusting to the enormous challenge of social distancing.

As social creatures, there’s nothing like a pandemic to remind us how much we crave and need social interaction.

Let’s face it, social distancing is hard — really, really hard. Fortunately, though, it’s also very effective, and there are good reasons you should still be taking social distancing seriously.

Plus, social distancing doesn’t have to mean being socially isolated.

It might take flipping your mindset about the definition of socializing and getting creative with how you interact with others, but there are ways to safely “socialize” during a pandemic, including: • Using digital tools to stay connected • Making your happy hours virtual • Playing multiplayer video games with voice chat • Picking up your phone and calling a friend or loved one • Getting outdoors and spreading out (way out)

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NORTHWEST CHIROPRACTIC George G. Junkin, D.C. D.A.C.B.N. Nutritionist 11500 NW Frwy - Suite 201 Houston, Texas 77092 Tel: 713-686-0828 www.drjunkin.com Internal Medicine

Dr. Jaclyn Harrison Heights Health Tower 1900 North Loop West Suite 580 713-714-5376 www.whiteoakmedicalassociates.com Obstetrics / Gynecology

Contributed photo Area doctors are warning that following state and federal guidelines are a must in order to slow the outbreak of COVID-19.

Social distancing requires rethinking birthday parties, family gatherings, holiday celebrations and summer vacations — even just your everyday nights and weekends. But social distancing is worth it — no matter inconvenient it may seem.

Wear cloth masks in public spaces Public health officials continue to warn that both asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic individuals are able to spread COVID-19. This means that you could be contagious and not know it, and inadvertently spread COVID-19 to anyone you come into close contact with — which is about two arm lengths, by the way.

A cloth face mask acts as a physical barrier that can help contain any infectious respiratory droplets you may release while coughing, speaking or breathing. The CDC recommends wearing a mask while in a public setting where social distancing is difficult, including stores and gas stations.

Think of wearing cloth masks as a new social contract between you and everyone within your community. While your cloth mask may not protect you, it may protect others around you — including those who are more likely to be hospitalized due to COVID-19.

If you’ve already been diligently wearing a mask while in public the last few months, you may have some logistical questions. Knowing how to wear, wash and store your mask is important, as well as when exactly you should be wearing it.

Know the symptoms and when to get screened COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory illness, and many COVID-19 symptoms overlap with other common respiratory illnesses. It’s important to know the symptoms separating COVID-19 from a cold, the flu or even just allergies.

If you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you can speak to a boardcertified care provider through Hous-

ton Methodist Virtual Urgent Care.

Our providers are available 24/7 to help you determine if testing is needed, as well as advise you on where you should go. Simply download the MyMethodist app in the App Store or on Google Play, open the app, select a provider and begin your visit.

If you test positive for coronavirus, it will be important to self-quarantine and follow the care recommendations suggested by your health care provider throughout your recovery.

Concerned you may have COVID-19?

• If you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you can speak to a Virtual Urgent Care provider 24/7. The provider will help you determine if testing is needed and advise you on where you should go.

Stephanie Fulton, M.D. 1740 W. 27 St. Suite 301 Houston, TX 77008 713-880-2727 www.fultonobgyn.com Major Hospitals

Memorial Hermann Greater Heights 1635 North Loop West Houston, Texas 77008 Tel: 713-867-2000 memorialhermann.org Physician Referral 713.222.CARE

This article is part of The Leader Experts series, where companies pay for editorial content on topics important to the community. If you’d like to be a Leader Expert, contact us at 713-6868494.

How accurate are antibody tests?

Jennifer M. Solak Attorney & Counselor at Law

ESTATE PLANNING PROBATE BUSINESS LAW

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

In addition to getting swabbed to check for an active-virus COVID-19 infection, many people are choosing to get a blood test to see if they have the antibodies – or the blood proteins produced in response to a specific antigen – that would indicate a past infection. But how accurate are these tests and what do they really mean?

Dr. Annamarie Macaluso Davidson, an occupational and environmental medicine physician at Memorial Hermann Health System, shared her expertise and the answers to some of these questions with The Leader.

“We are testing patients for COVID antibodies,” Davidson said. “Patients can be seen by a provider and tested at our Memorial Hermann Urgent Care locations across the city. Patients can also be seen by a Memorial Hermann Medical Group or Memorial Hermann affiliated provider.

Their doctor can order the test as well and samples are then collected in office or at a nearby lab.”

Davidson said there are many different antibody tests on the market, and not all are equally reliable.

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“While convenient, some antibody tests have been less reliable in their results,” she said. “The test may have low sensitivity and not screen for the infection well, or they may cross react with the common cold — a virus in the same family as COVID-19 — and are less specific for COVID-19, for example.”

Davidson said when looking for testing, people should go with a trusted provider.

“The CDC is currently evaluating the performance of all these tests on the market, in collaboration with other federal organizations,” she said. “The results are posted

Davidson

on CDC.gov.”

As to the issue of antibodies indicating further COVID-19 immunity, Davidson said the scientific community

File photo

has not come to a conclusion yet.

“There are several studies in progress to help understand this – how long the antibodies will protect an individual and if there is a specific threshold or level of antibody production that allows for long-term immunity,” she said.

The test is also not a surefire indicator of previous COVID-19 infection.

“From the study of our immune system, we know that when we have an infection or our body recognizes some-

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Page 2B • Saturday, July 11, 2020 • The Leader

PROPERTIES Agent Spotlight

Jason Knebel

Memorial Hermann leads new Houston-area hospital ranking From Staff Reports Six Memorial Hermann Health System locations made the top 10 in the Houston region in a new hospital ranking released by The Lown Institute, which measured the hospitals based on how they perform in terms of value to patients and a commitment to health equity within their communities.

Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center was the top-ranked hospital in Houston and ninth in the nation, according to a news release from The Lown Institute, a Massachusetts-based nonpartisan think tank. Harris Health System was second on the Houston-area list, followed by Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital in Humble, Memorial Hermann Hospital System, Brazosport Regional Health System in Lake Jackson, The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital, Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital,

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center.

The Lown Institute Hospitals Index compared the hospitals on 42 performance indicators that fall under three categories: Civic leadership, which assesses a commitment to equity, inclusion and community health; value of care, which measures use of unnecessary services; and patient outcomes, which evaluates patient outcomes, safety and satisfaction.

“At a time when communities are relying on them like never before, hospitals must rethink what it means to be great,” said Dr. Vikas Saini, president of the Lown Institute. “COVID-19 highlights how hospitals are essential community partners for anyone in need. To be great, however, a hospital cannot only provide care that’s high in quality. It must also deliver value and advance equality. Our index is designed to help them do just that.”

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IN MEMORIAM

M

Max Beauregard

ax was born in Amarillo in 1951 to Ken and Wanda Beauregard. He had 3.5 years of independence before his brother Dean was born. Max graduated Tascosa Highschool in 1969 and attended Amarillo College briefly before going to UT in Austin. He completed his Bachelorss and Masters respectively. Max moved to Houston in the mid 70’s. The Houston Heights has been his home ever since. He found the community he had long searched for. He was a well known party host for most holidays and any other occasion that might deserve a party. He was an avid traveler for many years with i h ddozens of locations marked off his adventure list. He was also a dedicated activist in the LGBTQ+ community. He participated in many years of parades and celebrations. The bigger, the bolder, the louder, the better! He was always volunteering to help out any way he could. He met and made many friends over the years. Max previously owned a furniture store, Juxtables, that was located in The Montrose community on The Curve along lower Westheimer.

As a professional demographer, Max owned two companies: Demographics & GIS Consulting Services and Texas Data Marketer. In these roles Max helped many surrounding cities plan their community layout and provide data for many political campaigns and elected office holders. Max later discovered another joy, teaching. He was a government instructor in Houston Community College. He was adamant that his students learn different aspects of opinions in politics. He encouraged debates and wasn’t afraid to be bold in his own beliefs. He was a long time member and past President of the Greater Heights Democratic Club and current Democratic Precinct Chair and Election Judge for Precinct 0057. He enjoyed participating in political parades as well. He loved the camaraderie of people coming together for a cause. He retired in the summer of 2019 and was able to enjoy one last adventure of indoor skydiving with his niece and her family.

Max is preceded in death by his parents and his brother. Survivors are his niece, Deana Edwards, her husband Terry and their kids Ian, Orie and Echo, extended family in California, New Mexico, Colorado and many dear and loving friends in and around the Houston area. If you would like to make a donation in memory of Max, his family has requested that you please consider your local democratic club, local LGBTQ+ support groups or the High Plains Food Bank in Amarillo, Tx. A memorial celebration will be held via Zoom on July 11 at 2pm. To access the service, use meeting code 963 7925 8263 and password 498125.

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Without these or when imbalanced, anxiety and depression can present. Research is demonstrating how the gut-brain connection is highly affected by stress and the chemistry it creates.

Stress can be a player in many intestinal conditions: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), food sensitivities, peptic ulcer and Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) to name a few. Stress can change motility, gastrointestinal secretions, increase intestinal permeability (leaky gut) and affect the regeneration of intestinal cells.

Symptoms that may appear include changes in bowel habits, fatigue, skin rashes, lack of concentration or brain fog as well as insomnia.

To improve gut health, include regular fiber intake every day. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of fiber is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men.

Eating fruits and vegetables (organic when possible) with skin and peeling has great benefit for our gut microbiome. Fiber can also be found in oats, beans and legumes, nuts and seeds. Avoiding processed foods high in industrial seed oils such as vegetable oil, safflower oil, canola oil, cottonseed and soybean oil is an important step. These oils oxidize, are unstable and can result in inflammation.

Balanced protein intake also supports intestinal cell health as amino acids provide key

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Stress today is found everywhere, and likely you have read just about every article on stress in the last three months during this pandemic.

Even I, who follow good nutrition advice, have seen the effects of stress on my health.

A recent follow-up showed my cortisol stress hormones as below normal, almost indicating fatigue. The adrenal glands are having trouble keeping up with the amount of stress I am perceiving (key word- perceiving).

Additionally, stool results indicate this stress is also affecting my intestinal health.

Opportunistic bacteria at higher levels cause inflammation to rise, create changes in chemical signaling and reduce enzymatic activity. Just as I would advise a patient, the seat of health lies in the gut.

The intestinal tract begins in the mouth and includes the esophagus, the stomach, the small intestines, the colon and down to the anus. It also includes the accessory organs of the liver, the pancreas and the gallbladder. All along the way, these intestinal cells secrete enzymes, digest food, absorb nutrients, create neurotransmitters and protect us from microbial infection and pathogens. Microflora are more abundant in the colon than in any other part of the GI tract. More than 400 different strains of bacteria and yeast have been identified from human samples.

Scientists have been researching gut health for years but are more recently learning how important it is to human health. Gut microbes synthesize vitamins such as vitamin K, biotin, B12 and folic acid.

Many of the B vitamins are necessary cofactors for the creation of neurotransmitters, the brain chemical messengers like serotonin and dopamine.

fuel for the lining of the gut.

Approximately 0.6-1.0 grams protein per kilogram of body weight is recommended for the average person.

Lifestyle factors that reduce the effect of stress on intestinal health include exercise and sleep. Both have a large impact on supporting good gut health.

Setting regular sleep and wake times, planning some form of daily movement and finding a calm reflective practice are all good investments in your health. These can shift the response from the sympathetic nervous system of “fight or flight” to the parasympathetic nervous system of “rest and digest”.

The odds are low to escape all the stress in our modern world. For most people who juggle families or have a job on the brink with the downturn of the economy or may be caring for aging parents, stress is likely here to stay. By including fiber, balanced protein and limiting highly processed oils in your diet, these choices may help maintain intestinal health in the face of stress.

For my own health, in addition to my nutrition, I commit to further focus in the parasympathetic state of “rest and digest” through more contemplative practice, better sleep and maintaining movement on a daily basis. Will you join me in this?

Tip Here are a few foods that are naturally high in fiber: • 1 large pear with skin (7 grams) • 1 cup fresh raspberries (8 grams) • ½ medium avocado (5 grams) • 1 ounce almonds (3.5 grams) • ½ cup cooked black beans (7.5 grams) • 3 cups air-popped popcorn (3.6 grams) • 1 cup cooked pearled barley (6 grams)

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She is a graduate of the University of Texas and completed residency at St. Vincent’s Medical Center where she was a Chief Resident.

Dr. Fulton volunteers as part of the health team ministry of her church.

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The Leader • Saturday, July 11, 2020 • Page 3B

What is dog flu? Should Routine Male Cat Neuters you be concerned about it? $ or spreading the virus, but it may reduce your pet’s symptoms.

“The vaccine is recommended for pets that go to dog shows, including hunting and agility; are kenneled or boarded; visit grooming salons or doggie day cares regularly; or are around a high number of dogs that visit these areas,” Eckman said.

is experiencing symptoms of the canine flu, contact your veterinarian before going into their office. This allows the veterinarian to prepare for the visit and potentially decrease exposure to other pets.

If you live in an area where the canine flu has been reported, consider keeping your dog away from other dogs by staying clear of the dog park or dog kennels.

Dear Tabby, I’ve heard that there is a flu virus that impacts dogs. In this age of COVID-19, this news worries me. What is the dog flu and should I be concerned that my dog might contract it?

No masks for Fido If your pet becomes infected with the canine flu, a veterinarian can provide supportive care and medications to make the pet feel better. In the meantime, consider your options for preventing your pet from facing this illness

Vaccinations recommended Canine influenza is a relatively new virus in dogs, but there are vaccines available to help protect your pet. The vaccine does not prevent your pet from getting infected

Worried about the Dog Flu in Garden Oaks Dear Worried about Dog Flu, While the whole world is on pins and needles over COVID-19, many don’t know that there is a virus that impacts dogs that often makes the rounds in the United States this time of the year.

Luckily, the “dog flu” isn’t usually life-threatening when treated and isn’t transmissible to humans.

49

again in the future, such as with a vaccine.

And, unlike humans during the COVID crisis, your dog doesn’t need to wear a mask, but please consider reducing direct contact between your dog and strange dogs who might carry the virus as well as limiting the sharing of water and food bowls.

As a pet parent, it is important to provide your dog with excellent healthcare. Talk with your veterinarian about reducing the chances of your dog being impacted by canine influenza.

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Symptoms of dog flu “The most common symptoms of canine flu include coughing and lethargy as well as decreased appetite and fever,” said Dr. Stacy Eckman, clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. “In some cases, the infection can progress to pneumonia, especially when the flu is complicated by other respiratory bacteria or viruses.”

The canine flu should be treated as soon as possible.

If you are worried your pet

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What about your neighbors?

Antibodies, from P. 1B thing as foreign, the immune system will produce antibodies,” Davidson said.

“These antibodies are proteins that help fight the infection. A negative antibody test could mean that the person was not infected. However, a negative result could also mean that the body did not make enough antibodies to be detected by the test. This happens in individuals with mild infections.”

Davidson said a negative antibody test could also mean the person tested too early.

“It takes about one to three weeks for the antibodies to be produced,” she said.

“There are cases I have seen where patients have had a clinical infection and confirmed positive COVID test, but later their tests for antibodies were negative.

This would be considered a false negative antibody test, because we know the person was infected, and we know bodies produce antibodies to fight an infection.”

That might have been the case for Heights resident Meggan Watson.

“I had the antibody test (and) it came back negative,” she said. “I suspect that was a false negative since I have had treatment-resistant walking pneumonia

for three months following an illness in March.”

Oak Forest’s Jennifer Rodriguez and her firefighter husband got an antibody rapid test in late April. She also donated blood last Friday, and had an antibody test taken as well, and is waiting on those results.

“We had taken a trip to Mexico in March,” she said. “We wanted peace of mind that we didn’t have it already and possibly spread it to others if we were asymptomatic.”

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The American Veterinary Medical Association has approved these Guidelines for Responsible Pet Ownership • Committing to the relationship for the life of the pet(s).

• Avoiding impulsive decisions about obtaining pet(s).

• Recognizing that ownership of pet(s) requires an investment of time and money.

• Keeping only the type and number of pets for which an appropriate and safe environment can be provided.

• Ensuring pets are properly identied (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos) and that registration information is kept up-to-date.

• Adherence to local ordinances, including licensing and leash requirements.

• Controlling pet(s)’ reproduction through managed breeding, containment, or spay/neuter.

• Establishing and maintaining a veterinarian-client patient relationship.

• Providing preventive (e.g., vaccinations, parasite control) and therapeutic health care for the life of the pet(s).

• Socialization and appropriate training for pet(s).

• Preventing pet(s) from negatively impacting other people, animals and the environment.

• Providing exercise and mental stimulation appropriate to the pet(s) age, breed, and health status.

• Making alternative arrangements if caring for the pet is no longer possible.

Always call your Vet if you have any concerns or questions

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THE PUBLIC. The Leader • Saturday, July 11, 2020 • Page 4B

Heights store owner puzzled by recent burglary

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

The co-owner of The Whimsy Artisan Boutique said a recent burglary resulted in about $1,500 in damages and lost goods, which was a big blow to a business that already was reeling because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What really irked Jess Carlos, who runs the Heights shop along with her husband, Luis, was watching the surveillance video and seeing the burglar swipe a can of Dr Pepper from her cooler.

“That was just rude to me,” she said. “How Texan of me.”

Two neighboring businesses also were hit early in the morning of July 2, according to Houston Police Department spokesperson John Cannon.

He said the owners of The Whimsy Artisan Boutique, Misfit Toys and A Blue Seam, which all operate in the Heights Common Market at 1802 Yale St., reported being burglarized by a black male with a thin build who was recorded on their surveillance videos.

Cannon said the suspect gained entry to the businesses by prying open a small window in the back of the building. An iPhone and iPad were among the items that were stolen, he

Contributed photo The above surveillance photo from The Whimsy Artisan Boutique shows the man who burglarized the business on July 2.

said.

“They have not turned the video over to us yet,” he said late Tuesday afternoon.

According to surveillance video at The Whimsy Artisan Boutique, which the shop provided to The Leader, the burglar busted through the French doors in the back of the store before rummaging through a cash register that contained only coins. He then grabbed the soda and a backpack with an image of The Heights Theater logo, filling it up with scented oils and candles.

During his three minutes in the store, according to Carlos, the burglar did not mess with

any of the several pieces of art hanging on the walls.

“It was so strange he went straight to the oils,” Carlos said.

“It makes no sense. The whole thing makes no sense at all.”

Carlos said the suspect, who in the video was wearing a black T-shirt and black shorts, also was wearing a mask. She said she was glad about that, although she still disinfected the store afterward.

Carlos also said she suspects the burglar might have had an accomplice, because she could hear banging sounds in the background of her video.

While she described the burglary as “disheartening,” especially since the business has been trying to overcome the economic downturn associated with the pandemic and corresponding social distancing and mask-wearing requirements, Carlos said she’s glad that her shop wasn’t ransacked and no one was hurt.

“I’m grateful it didn’t go as bad as it could have. It could have been really bad,” she said.

“But it still sucks.”

Cannon said anyone with information about the burglaries is encouraged to call HPD at 713-308-0900 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-2228477.

Police investigating deadly double shooting in Independence Heights

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com

Houston police are searching for a suspect involved in a double shooting near Independence Heights last week that killed one man and wounded another.

The Houston Police Department said in a news release that one victim, 26-year-old John Peavy, was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim was transported to a hospital in an unknown condition, according to HPD. HPD said officers respond-

ed to a shooting call at 1000 E. 40th ½ Street just after 3 p.m. Thursday, July 2, finding Peavy dead in the street and the other male victim who was then transported to an area hospital.

According to police, a black Chrysler 300 circled the area several times before one unknown male suspect fired multiple shots in Peavy’s direction, striking him as well as the second victim.

Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact HPD’s Homicide Division

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