The National Headquarters of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America has been informed that some Brothers are experiencing COVID-19-related symptoms and/or have tested positive for COVID-19 following the recently concluded 57th National Convention held in St. Louis, MO. As a result, all Brothers who attended the Convention should be made aware so that necessary precautions can be taken. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, muscle and body aches, loss of taste and smell, sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

Emergency warning signs for COVID-19 warrant immediate emergency medical care. These symptoms include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, and bluish lips or face.

Brothers who may be experiencing mild symptoms should isolate immediately and take a home test.  You may also want to contact your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you. Brothers who fall into the category of “high risk” and have particular chronic conditions such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, chronic lung disease, or any condition causing a compromised immune system should contact their medical providers immediately to discuss the need for Paxlovid. This medication works best when taken as soon as symptoms appear (within the first five days of symptoms). Remember that it is still possible for a person to be infected with COVID-19 with no symptoms and despite being fully vaccinated and boosted.  The vaccine protects a person from serious illness, hospitalization, and death. The current guidance recommends isolation and quarantine for at least 5 days, followed by precautions such as wearing a mask, not traveling, and avoiding contact with others who might get very sick from COVID-19. Over-the-counter products for fever and pain can be used as directed for mild symptoms. For more severe symptoms, immediately contact your medical provider or proceed to the nearest emergency department for further evaluation and management.

References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022). COVID-19.
Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html