In this tough and unprecedented time, there is vast amounts of information circulating about COVID-19, which may be overwhelming and confusing.  Some thyroid patients have questions on how does this impact them. There is no evidence that patients with thyroid issues have something more to worry as compared to the rest of the population. What each one of us can do is take proper recommended measures that are advocated by the WHO and Health Authorities in each of your countries. Maintaining safe distance (i.e. Social distancing), wearing face-mask, hygienic lifestyle i.e. thoroughly washing hands will minimize the chances of exposure. Best is not to take any chances of socializing outside your house. When going out for groceries please take all the precautions and keep a safe distance from others. Also being honest with yourself when and if you think there are symptoms to isolate yourself from others will be a key to containing the spread of the virus.

We also want thank and salute the amazing healthcare and medical providers who have been working tirelessly in response to this pandemic – we appreciate your efforts to keep the people of your countries safe during this pandemic.

Governments the world over have taken measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 by temporarily closing down places and traffic where people could come in contact with each other. Please strictly adhere to the advice on ‘social distancing’, its better to NOT take any chances. Scientific communities are still discovering more about the virus each day.

You will find the following guidance most commonly seen on professional websites, please do follow this guidance:

• Avoid close contact with people and strangers not known to you.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• It is especially important to clean hands after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
• Avoid traveling if you are sick and also avoid crowded places.

We understand this is a tough time for people all over the world, including our thyroid community. To ensure you have access to the right information, we have provided a few sites below, for your reference.

Please ensure you follow the guidance of your federal and state governments and health authorities to help contain the spread of the virus. Be sure to follow appropriate hygiene precautions and social distancing, while observing advice about self-isolation and quarantining, should you come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Please keep and stay safe in these difficult times.

Ashok Bhaseen, M.Pharm, MMS
President Thyroid Federation International