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By Richard P. Leach, MD, Special to The Chronicle

Here are some critically important epidemiologic thoughts to consider in the face of this terrible COVID-19 pandemic.

First, the numbers we see today of infected and dead represent infections that were acquired 3 to 5 weeks ago. It is hard to comprehend this fact unless you study how this virus works. Those weeks represent what we call the incubation phase, during …

By Cathy DeDe, Chronicle Managing Editor

“It’s scientifically proven. Flowers make people happy,” says Tami Field, manager of Binley’s Florist and Garden Shop in Queensbury.

Like several other nursery-garden stores who responded to a Chronicle inquiry, Binley’s is upbeat even as Ms. Field said sales and walk-ins are down as the spring planting season arrives.

The businesses can be open amid the coronavirus “Pause” because New York State has deemed …

By Sandra Hutchinson, Chronicle Chief Operating Officer

Many people on mental health medications are now hesitant to go to a pharmacy to pick up their prescriptions for fear of contracting the coronavirus, said Glens Falls psychologist Dr. Gina Scarano-Osika, who contacted The Chronicle.

She said it can lead to increased depression and anxiety and, in some cases, relapse on substances like alcohol and drugs. Additionally, she says, suddenly stopping some …

By Richard P. Leach, MD, Special to The Chronicle

The question of how to use face masks in the current COVID-19 pandemic has been discussed quite a lot in recent weeks. The advice of experts has gone back-and-forth, confusingly. Things are starting to be a bit clearer now.

First it should be said that the virus that causes COVID-19, called SARS-CoV-2, is flung from an infected person’s throat into the …

Chronicle Managing Editor Cathy DeDe writes: Will the “social distancing” mandated by the coronavirus pandemic cause permanent changes?

“I don’t know if handshakes will ever come back,” says Queensbury Town Supervisor John Strough.

“I’ve always worried about that anyway. In the course of a day, with meetings and everything, I probably shake 100 hands a day.

“I don’t always have time between to wash my hands. So, you shake hands …