Meet Behnam Goudarzi, MD, FCCP. He’s a Board Certified in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, Internal Medicine and Sleep Medicine. Dr. Goudarzi is the President of the Medical Staff at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center.
What are your thoughts as a physician working during a pandemic?
During this devastating pandemic, as a physician, I’d like to urge everyone to stand as one and follow strict social distancing and healthy hygiene guidelines. We have all seen what happens otherwise. This virus spreads fast.
We are in an evolving scenario. Now is the time for mitigation. Every person’s concern should be to try to decrease the number of people that are affected in a short period of time. This way, we can get more and more prepared in terms of PPEs, testing, treatment and vaccination.
What are your concerns as a pulmonologist?
Patients with certain chronic diseases are at higher risk, despite their age. The hallmark of this disease is respiratory failure due to lung inflammation, a type of pneumonia. Chronic respiratory illnesses put patients at a disadvantage. Patients, who suffer from respiratory illnesses should be extra careful to avoid contracting the virus.
Though it’s still early, what are the potentially-lasting effects of COVID-19 on both patients with and without existing lung conditions?
Currently, there is no evidence that this kind of pneumonia has any different long term effects than other types of pneumonia. In general, every time somebody catches pneumonia, varying degrees of scars can develop in the lungs. There are no proven curing treatments at this time, though certain long-existing medications have shown some promising effects.
What do you want patients and the community to know about COVID-19?
Information and knowledge about COVID-19 are increasing by the moment. Recent research from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, says the “maximum transmission distance of SARS-CoV-2 aerosol” could be up to 13 feet. Coronavirus does not walk or fly. It is spread by humans, so let’s defeat it by not spreading it.
To learn more about COVID-19, visit sentaraupdates.com.
Recent Stories
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The Prince William County Animal Services Bureau has obtained a Virginia state license to operate a veterinary clinic at the Animal Services Center. The clinic will provide medical care exclusively for animals under the bureau’s care, improving efficiency in treating injured, ill, and routine medical needs.
The clinic will be led by Dr. Kimberly Nelsen, an experienced veterinarian specializing in shelter medicine. Dr. Nelsen, a Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine graduate, has extensive experience in both rural and large-scale veterinary care and was recently recognized as one of Northern Virginia Magazine’s Top Veterinarians for 2024.
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Potomac Mills Mall is preparing to welcome U.S. Polo Assn. Outlet, the official clothing brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA).
U.S. Polo Assn. offers clothing, accessories, luggage, watches, and shoes for men, women, and children. The new store will open on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, giving shoppers access to a selection of classically styled pieces that embody the heritage of the sport of polo.
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A wanted Woodbridge man led police on a high-speed chase down I-95 before being captured by Stafford deputies and Virginia State Police. Gideon Owusu, Jr., 31, faces charges including malicious wounding of a police officer, reckless driving, DUI, and larceny. Meanwhile, deputies responded to a fight at Planet Fitness, fraudulent ATM withdrawals, a hit-and-run, and shoplifting at Dollar General and ABC Store. A mailbox was also vandalized with fireworks.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and