Response to COVID-19

Our office has always practiced standard precautions, which means that we have practiced infection control as though COVID-19 were already present. Our office infection control standards use barriers, disinfection, disposables, and sterilization for controlling all diseases. In response to the novel corona virus, the office has responded to this change by adding to standard precautions, COVID -19 transmission precautions. Specifically, KN 95 masks are worn with face shields, hydrogen peroxide/hypochlorous vaporizers are used, HEPA-13 filters are used, infrared thermometer temperatures are taken daily for staff and patients, patients are pre-screened for viral susceptibility, appointments are staggered to maintain an empty reception area, and no more than 50% of office staff are allowed into the office at any one time to mitigate congregating. The staff have obtained COVID 19 antigen testing with negative results of the virus, and this, on an ongoing monthly basis. Despite these precautions, our office team is emotionally focused in keeping ourselves and patients well.

Because I am on staff at Northshore University HealthSystem and a member of the American Dental Association I receive daily updates on COVID-19 from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Our office is complying with CDC recommendations and those of Governor Pritzker and the Director of Illinois Department of Public Health, Dr. Ngozi Ezike. The office was closed since March 16 but has been opened on a limited schedule in accordance with the Governor’s “Restore Illinois” plan, and this in accordance with the President’s plan, “Opening Up America Again.” Despite entering Phase 4, the office will continue practicing as though we are still in Phase 2 or 3. Until a vaccine is developed, administered, and population immunity created, there remains a risk for infection recurrence.

If you have a dental question, please contact me at: haradadmd@sbcglobal.net. In the meantime, please practice the pandemic safety precautions that are meant to serve us all. Or as Mayor Lightfoot said, to practice the three “w’s,” wait, wash and watch. Wait, the six foot distance. Wash your hands and wear face masks. Thank you for your trust and confidence. To refresh the website, please purge your computer’s cache by holding the CTR key and pressing f5.

Michael Harada, DMD

Michael Y. Harada, DMD, FAGD – Glenview General Dentist