Chronicle and Fish Wrapper readers have called or emailed questions about the covid-19 pandemic.

Experts at the SC Health & Environmental Control Department have graciously answered them.

If you have questions, please send them to JerryBellune@yahoo.com, and we will get them answered.

Q. What are your odds of recovery if you are infected and older than 60?
A. Because it’s a new disease to humans, covid-19 and its clinical course are still being studied. 
The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 4% to 11% of adults 65 to 84 years old and 10% to 27% of adults 85 years old and older with covid-19  in the U.S. have died. 

Q. Does this build an immunity or can you catch any covid strain again?
A. We’re still learning about this virus, and at this time, the CDC reports the likelihood of patients to be re-infected by covid-19 is still unknown.

Q. How can you protect yourself from virus germs lurking on packaging from the grocer or pharmacy?
A. Because of poor survivability of these viruses on surfaces, a low risk of spread is likely from food products or packaging.
It may be possible that a person can get covid-19 by touching a surface or object, like a packaging container, that has the virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
However, DHEC encourages the public to frequently wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coming into contact with commonly touched surfaces like doors, handrails, checkout counters and others. 
We advise thoroughly washing your hands after being in a public setting and not touching your face until you wash. Also be sure to practice social distancing at all times by maintaining 6 feet between individuals.

Q. Can you be infected if the virus is in food you eat?
A, Covid-19 isn’t a food-borne illness. It’s spread by droplets coughed or sneezed by a person with the illness ​on those in close contact for an extended period of time.
Before preparing or eating food it is important to always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds for food safety.

Q. Which is safer, hand washing or using sanitizers?
A. Washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap is the preferred method for protecting against the virus.
If soap and water are unavailable, use alcohol sanitizers with greater than 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol.

Email your questions to JerryBellune@yahoo.com