Dear Editor,
I would like to respectfully submit my concerns for those of us who suffer from chronic respiratory issues and other medical conditions that cause us to suffer from bouts of coughing, congestion, shortness of breath, or wiping our runny noses and sneezing.
Aside those folks suffering with CF (cystic fibrosis), those with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), those who are 'mouth breathers' for various reasons and end up with dry coughs and sore throats (mine alleviated with that first morning cup of tea) and/or nasal congestion, those of us who suffer with chronic conditions like asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, allergies, post-nasal drip along with their various symptoms including runny nose, sneezing and cough. Undoubtedly there are yet more respiratory/medical conditions that contribute to these similar symptoms.
Medications to alleviate these symptoms are variable in their effects and side-effects. Most of us have also seen specialists at various times searching for treatments, if any, for these chronic life-long symptoms – some are even front-line workers. No, they don't have COVID-19, yet they/we feel somewhat stigmatized and targeted by the assessment criteria that labels our symptoms as suspect and directs us to self-isolate for 10 to 14 days.
But not only that, now we are subject to being fined for having our symptoms!
I have managed for decades with my symptoms, so how is this helpful for me and others in this situation? I can "self-isolate" for the next 10 years and unfortunately will still have my symptoms.
Before you report us, before every one presumes we are COVID-19 carriers and contagious, and before we are burned at the stake, please think about other reasons people may be exhibiting these symptoms.
Susan Cameron
Crossfield
