Dr Alfred Dawes, one of the Caribbean’s leading laparoscopic and weight-loss specialists, is urging the public to check their blood oxygen levels.

Dr Dawes asserts that it is critical to know your blood oxygen count as it is an element that has proven to be a key indicator in identifying COVID-19 cases. He noted that suspected and confirmed cases typically display a lower-than-normal blood count, as opposed to a normal healthy person.

In an interview with SLEEK Jamaica Media, Dr Dawes urged Jamaicans to take the time to check their oxygen levels.

“We need to check our blood oxygen count more often as it will aid in the early detection of the virus,” Dr Dawes said.

“The coronavirus affects the body in two phases, first it replicates what’s inside, which can result in mild symptoms such as coughs, sneezing, and dizziness,” he said. “Then goes into second a phase which includes lung infection resulting in difficulty breathing and other complications,” he added.

“All of which can be mitigated by use of a pulse rate oxygen meter. The machine is used to measure levels of oxygen around the body, as such, provides a screenshot of any possible abnormalities,” Dr Dawes shared.

The former President of the Jamaica Medical Doctors Association (JMDA), was absolute about the role these machines can play in usurping the possible impact of an impending fourth wave of the Corona cases.

As part of a drive to encourage early testing, Dr Dawes, through his company Windsor Wellness Centre, is giving pulse rate oxygen meters to persons free of cost if they come in and test positive [for COVID-19].

While the gesture is geared towards positive tests, those who have returned negative results are however encouraged to purchase the device.

It is hoped that persons will have access to the machines, so friends and family can also benefit from knowing their status going forward.