At Dantian Health, I am following the Coronavirus situation carefully to stay up-to-date with the latest advice.
There is at this stage no directives for me to close the clinic. In a recent communication from the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia, our governmental registration board, they stated:
“All registered health practitioners including almost 5,000 registered Chinese Medicine practitioners play a vital role in containing the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).”
Charlie Xue – Chair, Chinese Medicine Board of Australia
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There have been many reports of how Chinese Herbal medicine has been used to assist in the management of patients affected by Coronavirus in China. Whilst these reports do sound promising, there is currently no high-quality evidence as to the effectiveness of herbal approaches as a treatment for COVID-19.
These reports have led to a surge in people purchasing Chinese herbs over the counter for self-treatment. It is prudent to remember that Chinese herbs are medicine and should only be taken as prescribed by a qualified Chinese herbalist.
This is a collection of some research papers regarding Chinese Herbal Medicine and COVID-19. These are not currently robust enough to be making any claims as to effective treatment or prevention, though do provide interesting reading.
The approach of Chinese Medicine is focused on returning the body to optimal functionality. The aim of this is to create a less hospitable place for the adverse effects of external environmental influences. By strengthening the body, it is perfectly positioned to help us adapt to the shifting health challenges we may face.
In a desire to continue serving the community as best possible, I am remaining open and available for treatments for the time being. For the physical, mental and emotional support that treatment can offer, I intend to keep providing that for my community.
My infection control efforts
I am being diligent and attentive towards efforts to prevent disease transmission, in accordance with standard infection control procedures. This includes
- Disinfecting communal surfaces regularly
- Ensuring head cloths/linen is changed between treatments
- Making hand sanitiser available
- Ensuring I am adhering to clean hands and other standard hygiene protocols (as I always do)
My request of you
I ask that if you are attending your appointment you assist me in maintaining a healthy and safe space by:
- Thoroughly washing your hands before your treatment in the clinic (we have “how to wash your hands” charts above the sinks)
- Covering your mouth/nose when sneezing or coughing with disposable tissues (or your elbow if tissues are not available), dispose of the tissues in the bin, and either wash your hands thoroughly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser immediately afterwards.
- Maintaining a physical distance from others who may be waiting for appointments.
I ask that if you have an appointment with me, please contact me to consider rescheduling if you have:
- Cold/flu like symptoms including fever, dry cough, muscle/joint aches, fatigue
- Been in close contact with someone within your friendship or family groups who has or is showing symptoms of coronavirus in the last 2 weeks
- Recently (last 14 days) returned from overseas travel
- Been in contact with someone within your friendship or family groups recently returned from overseas in the last 2 weeks
- High-risk because of work (eg hospital worker)
What you need to do
I recommend you study the following resources to empower yourself to make a self-assessment of your own personal risk for infection.
If you have symptoms such as dry cough, fever, fatigue and suspect that you have been exposed to the coronavirus, then it is also advised you call the COVID-19 hotline on 1800 020 080. They will be able to further discuss your symptoms and suggest if you should be tested. There are COVID-19 testing clinics located all around Melbourne.
I appreciate your help and look forward to supporting you through these times.
