Portraits in COVID-19

MY COVID-19 EXPERIENCE

By Daniel J. Van Durme, M.D., MPH, FAAFP

Dr. Daniel Van Durme is well-versed in viruses. In 2017, he presented the CME, “Emerging Pathogens- What All Docs Need to Know,” for the Capital Medical Society. He shared his personal experience with the Chikungunya virus in a Cap Scan. Dr. Van Durme has graciously allowed the Capital Medical Society to share his brief journal as he recovers from COVID-19. He hopes his shared experience will encourage those vaccinated for COVID-19 to seek testing if they experience any symptoms. We look forward to hearing of Dr. Van Durme’s full recovery.

Friday, July 16, 2021-My symptoms started in the morning, after I spent pretty much all of the past two days in bed with fevers up to 103.2, headache, cough, fatigue, and slight shortness of breath. I felt like I was run over by a truck.

Sunday, July 18, 2021-I just got my test results back, and I have COVID-19 and will be in isolation through July 26 and will return to the office on July 27. Today seems a bit better – I feel at least well enough to sit at my desk for a bit. EXCEPT that I lost taste and smell overnight – which is torture for a coffee lover like me. The next several days will determine how bad it will be.

Yes, of course, I have been fully vaccinated for well over six months. But this should be a reminder to all that vaccines are 90-95% (not 100%) effective, and if you have symptoms, do not assume that it cannot be COVID – get tested.

No, I do not know if it is the Delta variant, but looking at the overall numbers on what is happening, I would say there is a greater than 50% chance of Delta. The current vaccines in the U.S. are about 80-88% effective against the Delta variant.

Sunday, July 25, 2021-I am improving a bit day by day. Today is Day 9, and I still have lots of fatigue and moderate cough. Thankfully, my sense of taste is returning as well. Thanks so much to those who knew I was sick and have sent their prayers and good wishes.

EVERYONE can be a healthcare hero! Getting a COVID vaccine = SAVING LIVES.

Inspiring G d Health Dr. Kishor Muniyappa

4012 Kelcey Ct Ste 103| Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone 850.297.0351 | Fax 850.297.0352 www.TALLYGASTROHEALTH.com