Everything You Need To Know About Do Si Dos Strain

Do Si Dos Strain

Over the period of time, Do-Si-Dos has gained immense popularity for being one of the favorite cannabis strains among all cannabis fans worldwide. Called by the names Dosi or Dosi Doe, Do Si Dos is well-known for its unique and fantastic flavor and smell. Apart from that, it has high levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), making Do-Si-Dos a true winner for many cannabis consumers.

That’s not all!

This magical strain is known to offer incredible therapeutic and mental health benefits to people suffering from mental health issues like anxiety and depression. In fact, many people find it one of the best strains for anxiety. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, may consider taking Do-Si-Dos to improve your mental health condition. However, it is recommended to consult NY Medical Card to get an MMJ card online approved by medical experts.

For further information on Do-Si-Dos strain, read this all-inclusive blog that discusses the meaning, benefits, and side effects of Do-Si-Dos strain.

An Overview Of Do-Si-Dos Strain

Do-Si-Dos is a popular hybrid strain containing 70% Indica and 30% Sativa. It is a pungent, well-balanced, and Indica-dominant strain that has long-lasting effects on users as compared to other strains.

As already mentioned above, this small plant contains high THC levels, so it can make you feel stoned or high, no matter whether or not you are an experienced or first-time cannabis user.

The effects of Do-Si-Dos are very potent and high, making you feel dreamy, euphoric bliss. However, you can still enjoy high THC levels, just be aware of dosages of Do-Si-Dos.

Characteristics of Do-Si-Dos Strain

Some of the characteristics of the Do-Si-Dos strain that make it the favorite choice among all cannabis enthusiasts are

Aroma: Do-Si-Dos strain has a pungent, dank, and earthy smell. The sweet and fermented odor is also present in the flower which attracts many of its potential users. The smell of this strain is strong enough to fill an entire room.

Flavor: It has a delicious yet pungent flavor. The smoke tastes both skunky and fruity when exhaled. Since it contains terpenes also, you can experience a smooth inhale and floral exhale.

Appearance: The plant contains small-sized buds that look like popcorn clusters. Like other Indica strains, the flower has a dense structure and is magnetic in color. The leaves are green in color and contain orange pistils.

Last but not least the plant contains white trichomes covering the buds which are responsible for the psychoactive effects.

THC and CBD levels: As already mentioned, Do-Si-Dos contain high levels of THC and can make users extremely potent. On the other side, there is not much information on the quantity of CBD present in the Do-Si-Dos strain. However, it is believed that this strain contains even less than 1% of a trace amount of CBD.

Medical Benefits Of The Do-Si-Dos Strain

Do-Si-Dos may work wonders for people suffering from a range of medical conditions like

  • Chronic pain due to arthritis or lupus
  • Temporary pain due to injury
  • Nausea and headaches

Apart from the above, the strain is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties and induces Indica-dominant effects that help patients get relief from mild pains while uplifting their mood and creating lethargy.

Moreover, it may help patients struggling with mental conditions like depression and anxiety and can even help you alleviate sleeping disorders like insomnia. After smoking this bud, users can feel super relaxed and calm.

Also Read: Top 8 Cannabis Strains for Chronic Pain & Inflammation

Potential Side Effects of Do-Si-Dos Strain

Though Do-Si-Dos strain can help alleviate many physical and mental health conditions, a higher dosage can even wreak havoc on your overall well-being.

As already discussed, the strain contains high THC levels. If consumed in high quantities or dosages, the plant can result in paranoia. Also, it can result in other potential side effects like dry mouth, drowsiness, and itchy eyes to name a few. If overdosed, the strain can even hit you very hard, both physically and mentally.

Therefore, it is always better to start with less and consume small quantities of this bud. Moreover, people who are vulnerable to paranoia or anyone having low THC- tolerance must avoid having the Do-Si-Dos strain.

Let’s Wrap Up

Anyone who loves consuming Indica-dominant strains will definitely like the Do Si Dos strain due to its incredible effects on users. Highly beneficial, rewarding, and low maintenance, there are many reasons to like this strain. Furthermore, It is ideal for anyone who wants to feel relaxed and composed.

However, one must be cautious while consuming Do-Si-Dos as it is highly potent and can make you feel stoned. The high amounts of THC present in the strain can be very powerful for novice users. At the same time, the high amount may be beneficial for medical marijuana patients suffering from conditions like anxiety and pain. But it is always recommended to consult a medical marijuana expert before you consider taking marijuana. A medical expert can help you make the right decision to help you improve your mental or physical health.

How Long Does it Take to Get a NY Medical Marijuana Card?

Time to Get a NY Medical Marijuana Card

Getting a Medical Marijuana Card in New York is a process with an indefinite time span. The amount of time it takes to complete the whole process depends on the applicant, the practitioner who is certifying the applicant and the state of New York. One has to understand the role each of the three play and the possible time it may take to complete each step of the process.

However, the process is not as hard as it seems and the state of New York tends to give faster reception to issues of MMJ card application than other states. So, before you start stressing about how long does it take to get a NY medical marijuana card, first worry about getting certified by a doctor or physician in New York.

How Long Does it Take to Get Certification?

Well, this is the most indefinite part of the process. To get certification, one has to get evaluated by a medical marijuana doctor first. After the doctor approves of your condition’s eligibility to be treated by cannabis, the doctor then certifies you. Well depending on the clinic you use, you may receive your certification in your email within 24-36 hours or even less.

The practitioner however, can certify on spot if you qualify. This means he or she will enter your information in the Medical Cannabis Data Management System (MCDMS), generate your certificate and send it to you right away.

Again, this depends on the clinic you use.

Certification and Telemedicine?

With the introduction of telemedicine, the process of getting certification for a Medical Marijuana Card in New York, has never been easier. Instead of walking into a clinic physically to get evaluated by a medical practitioner, you can complete the whole process digitally. This means through trusted online clinics like NY Medical Card, you can get an appointment with a doctor and get evaluated through a video call.

The time it takes for you to get an evaluation after getting an appointment however depends on the clinic you choose to use but some clinics do not take more than 15-30 minutes to give you a call. This has proved to be both a money and time saving way to get certification.

How Long Does it Take to Register With The State?

Registering your certification with the state of New york is one of the easiest processes. Well, this is probably because the state also offers guides on how to register to those who do not understand the process.

All you have to do is register your certification with the state registry. The process is a bit faster if you already have an account with the state registry. It will only take about 3-6 minutes or more depending on the applicant. However, if you do not have an existing account, you have to make one first before registering with the state. The process may even take longer for someone who has an existing account but has forgotten the login information.

So, if the state approves your application, you will receive a Temporary Registration Card that will allow you to access cannabis products from the state marijuana dispensaries as you wait for the physical card. The Temporary MMJ ID is supposed to be used in conjunction with a state issued photo ID.However it is advisable to stay with your certification as a supporting document.

How Long Does it Take to Receive Your Physical Card?

According to the Office of Cannabis Management OCM website in New York State, it may take about 7 business days to receive your physical medical marijuana card in your mail. However, this is not quite definite. It may take more time, about 9 days for you to receive your MMJ card in the mail.

Renewal Process

In New York State, the process of renewing your MMJ card is a bit easier than in other states. Instead of going through the whole process again, practitioners can extend the existing certification if they are the one who issued it. The certification number remains the same although a new copy of the certification is sent to the applicant.
For the patient whose certification has been extended, the patient does not need to re-register. The patient can continue using his or her existing Registry ID card.

Caregiver’s ID

Application to be a caregiver takes almost the same effort and time as that of a patient. However there are three basic steps to becoming a registered caregiver for a medical cannabis patient. Firstly, you must get designated by a certified patient or other appropriate person (for patients who are minors or incapable of consent) as a caregiver on the patient registration. The patient should have an approved registration.Secondly, you must create an account in the state registry and register as a caregiver. If you are approved you may receive a temporary registry ID card that can be printed and used immediately in conjunction with a government-issued photo ID. You can visit a dispensing facility to purchase products for your patient, with the temporary registry ID as you wait for the physical card.

State registration and the waiting time for a physical card can take the same time as that for a patient. An individual may act as a designated caregiver for up to four patients.

Summary

For patients looking for certification from a medical practitioner, telemedicine is a faster way and you can complete that part of the process in less than an hour. The time you take to receive the certification depends on the doctor and clinic.

State registration my.ny.gov is a very easy process which takes less than 10 minutes to complete depending on the applicant.

It takes about 7 working days for the state registry to process and deliver a physical registry card to your mail. Meanwhile they give you a temporary ID which you can use to access cannabis products.

 

Also read: How to Get a New York Medical Marijuana Card? A Definitive Guide

Can I Get A Medical Marijuana Card With A Felony?

Get A Medical Marijuana Card With A Felony

With the legalization of the use of medical marijuana in 37 states of the USA, there has been a sustainable rise in the number of marijuana consumers. Obtained from the Cannabis Sativa plant, cannabis or marijuana is a popular psychoactive substance known for recreational and medical benefits. However, the laws and qualifying conditions for the use of marijuana vary from state to state.

The criteria usually include being a U.S. citizen and having the appropriate age. For instance, the legal age to use marijuana in most U.S. states is a minimum of 21.

But what if you are charged with a felony? To people’s knowledge, in the USA, a felony is a highly serious crime like murder or rape compared to less serious offenses. The punishment for felonies is generally very severe depending on the type of the crime. Millions of people live with a felony in the USA. Convicted felons lose many rights in the United States, including voting, foreign travel, parental perks, and social benefits.

Not getting a Medical Marijuana Card can be another right that a convicted felon may be deprived of. However, this depends on where you live. Before we dive deeper, let’s first understand what an MMJ card is.

An Overview of Medical Marijuana Card

Though marijuana is well known as a recreational drug, it is known to help individuals boost their health and quality of life. Medical marijuana is an alternative drug for people suffering from various health issues like depression and anxiety to name a few.

However, it is important to get a medical marijuana card to use marijuana for medical use. An MMJ card is a document approved by a certified medical expert that allows someone to legally obtain and use marijuana to real all of its medical benefits. However, there are certain conditions like appropriate age that you must qualify for to get an MMJ card. The qualifying conditions vary from state to state.

Can I Get Medical Marijuana Card With a Felony?

In some USA states like Mississippi, certain felons convicted of serious crimes like rape, don’t have voting rights. For a convicted felon even accessing normal things like getting a job, travelling, or voting is a roadblock.

Imagine how hard it can be to get an MMJ card. Interestingly enough, obtaining an MMJ card with a felony depends from state to state.

For convicted felons, it is feasible to get an MMJ card approved by a licensed physician, however, you are subjected to a background screening.

This background check focuses on your criminal history and record. While the offences listed in your criminal record are important, the most vital will be whether or not you are charged with a drug offence. In case you are charged with a drug offence, there is a high chance that you won’t qualify for an MMJ card.

States That Allow Felons to Use MMJ

Interestingly, a convicted felon is more deprived of benefits like voting rights and public housing than medical marijuana.

A majority of MMJ programs have no hard restrictions for felons. In most cases, one must qualify the following conditions to get an MMJ card

  • Above a specific age limit
  • Suffering from a health issue
  • Completing the application form honestly
  • Recommended by a licensed doctor
  • Licensing fee payment

There are many states that are in favour of allowing felons to use medical marijuana. This includes

California: As per Proposition 64 in California, nonviolent marijuana criminals can clear their records. Doing so allows them to enjoy rights like getting a gun licence, enjoying a government job, and starting a cannabis-growing business.

New York: Similarly, with the legalisation of recreational marijuana in New York, the bill allows felons to get an MMJ card in NY. However, it is important to get it approved by an authorised cannabis doctor in NY.

Arizona: Arizona allows drug traffickers, murderers, and felons to get an MMJ card after receiving certification from a licensed medical marijuana doctor.

States That Don’t Allow Felons to Use MMJ

Most U.S. states allow felons to get an MMJ card. However, exceptions do exist. Some U.S. states that don’t issue an MMJ card if you are convicted are

Illinois: Sadly, Illinois is one of the states that don’t allow felons convicted of drug offenses to access or get an MMJ card.

As per state law, the person applying for an MMJ card needs to get their fingerprints scanned and go through a background check. You won’t get an MMJ card in case your reports show that you have been charged with a drug offense.

It is important to note that applicants who clear test results under the provision for first-time offenders can easily get MMJ cards.

Iowa: Just like Illinois, Iowa doesn’t allow felons convicted of drug offences to get an MMJ card. The state follows a simple mantra, “Once a criminal, always a criminal.”

Can Felons Get Medical Marijuana Business Licence?

 

As mentioned above, states like New York and California allow felons to use medical marijuana to improve their health conditions. But when it comes to getting a medical marijuana business licence, things are different.

As per legal marijuana programs, it is restricted to get a commercial business licence if the felon is convicted of drug offences.

Almost every U.S. state has similar restrictions to “legitimize the trade”. The main reason behind this is the trading of marijuana from a legal to an illegal state.

Let’s Wrap Up

Hopefully, most of your doubts are cleared. Overall, a convicted felon can get an MMJ card in most legal states except Illinois and Iowa at present.

Last but the least, it is important to know that many states impose restrictions on caregivers with felony convictions. To your knowledge, a caregiver has a legal right to buy, transport, and deliver medical marijuana to a qualified patient.

Suffering from health conditions like depression or anxiety? If yes, medical marijuana is the right medicine for you. However, it is recommended to approach NY Medical Card to get a Medical Marijuana card from a licensed doctor on the same day.

How to Make Marijuana Edibles Hit You Faster?

Marijuana Edibles

Following the growing legalization of both medical and recreational cannabis in more of the US states, its consumption has become quite common. A major chunk of the American population, including younger and older, is now turning towards this plant for seeking relief from a wide range of medical conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, glaucoma, and even cancer.

Plus, patients with a debilitating medical condition have the option to access medical cannabis products with a med card. For instance, residents of New York, with a new york medical marijuana card, can easily access different marijuana products. 

With marijuana’s legalization trend, different cannabis products have also been entering the market just to keep up with the trend. While some of the popular ones are cannabis oils, topicals, and capsules, edibles are considered as the most convenient and easiest way to kick-in the effects of the substance. 

Though edibles are quite effective, sometimes it may take way too much time to kick-in the effects. Most of the patients find this is a genuine concern and end up looking for ways to make their edibles hit faster. So, below we have some of the top ways one can use to make marijuana edibles hit them faster with the desired effects. 

Marijuana Edibles: Types And Effects 

There are different forms of marijuana edibles. Some of the most common ones are listed below. 

  • Gummies
  • Lollipops
  • Cookies
  • Marijuana-infused drinks
  • Oil and tinctures
  • Capsules 
  • Dissolvable tablets 

Well, speaking of the effects, marijuana, in general, is known for producing different effects such as relaxing, pain-relieving, euphoric, anti-inflammatory etc. The concentration of CBD and THC in a particular edible influence the product’s effects as both contain similar but a bit different properties. 

While CBD is well-recognized for its therapeutic elements, THC, on the other hand, is popular for its psychoactive uniqueness. Now, legal cannabis edibles can only contain less than 0.3 % THC so as to make the products safe for consumption. Some edibles are only CBD infused which are used by patients with chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation as the compound promotes relaxation, relieves pain, and promotes sleep. 

Top Ways to Make Edibles Hit You Faster 

In the case of edibles, it’s a bit of a complex process. While they are known to deliver long-lasting intensified effects, the only downfall is that they can take a good amount of time to kick-in. Below, we have listed some of the effective ways you can make edibles hit you faster. 

Try Fast-Acting Edibles 

Fast-acting edibles are one of the recent developments within the cannabis industry where different companies claim that fast-acting edibles can make the marijuana reach the blood flow within a few minutes of the consumption hence, resulting in fast delivery of effects. 

Consume On an Empty Stomach 

This is one of the most effective ways of getting cannabis results much faster. Eating an edible on an empty stomach allows your digestive system to focus solely on the substance, hence giving more desired results. However, please note that this method could be risky for new cannabis users as they usually haven’t built the tolerance level to handle marijuana’s effects on an empty stomach. Regular cannabis users can use this method to achieve satisfactory results. 

Boost Up Your Metabolism 

Another effective way to make sure your edibles kick in faster is to work on your metabolism. Increased metabolism results in quicker digestion of THC in your body, which, in turn, affects how faster its effects will kick in. Though boosting your metabolism is not a one-day task, it happens over time when you consistently take care of things like proper diet, enough water intake, exercise, etc. So, work on all these things if you want to have a strong metabolism. 

Sublingual Edibles Can Help

Sublingual edibles can be a great way of getting THC down your body at a faster pace. Some of the examples of sublingual edibles are tinctures, gummies, candies, etc. Just place them on your tongue and let them melt to let THC reach the bloodstream at the earliest. 

Marijuana-Infused Beverages 

Some people might underestimate the potential of marijuana-infused drinks but this is also a well-known method of achieving faster results. Infusing fast-acting edibles into drinks lets the cannabinoids pass down the digestive tract more quickly than a solid edible. 

Bottom Line 

Summing up the whole discussion, it could be concluded that edibles are a great way of ingesting marijuana and its potential effects, however, it’s a time-consuming process which can be a bit uncomfortable at certain times. So, one seeking for immediate effects of cannabis should sort to those ways which can make their edibles kick in faster and hence, provide them with desired results. Also, if you still have doubt about marijuana use for your body, you can consult a medical marijuana doctor and take proper guidance on what’s best for you.

Synthetic Marijuana: Another Name for Poison

Synthetic Marijuana

Synthetic marijuana has been, for the longest time, a dreaded ‘alternative’ of naturally occurring marijuana. Unlike other cannabinoids that are extracted from marijuana or hemp sources, these ones were once synthesized for the sole purpose of research. 

However, the widespread distribution of these toxic alternatives across different channels and amongst the citizens of NY has necessitated the use of marijuana products you can access with a New York medical card

While you can get these toxins from any shady vendors and drug dealers, medical cannabis can only be obtained from a licensed dispensary, making it legal and safe. 

But before we get into why you should choose medical cannabis over synthetic, let us learn a little more about synthetic marijuana. Why it is feared, its side effects and why we should move to better, cleaner and naturally occurring alternatives. 

What is synthetic marijuana?

As the name states, these cannabinoids have been synthesized in laboratories rather than being sourced out from natural hemp or marijuana sources. 

These are often a combination of naturally grown plants that are sprayed with chemicals that imitate the effects of THC, but at a much greater potency. These chemicals lead to extreme psychosis in humans due to how potent they are. 

These illicit drugs have a bunch of street names: K2, Spice, Smacked, AK-47, Ninja, Wicked, Skunk, Atomic, XXX Ultra and many more. 

Why were these synthesized? For research. 

John W. Huffman was the scientist who first started synthesizing cannabinoids to learn about the endocannabinoid system in humans in 1984. He worked to create terahydrocannobidol (THC) like cannabinoids- in other words, components capable of creating a psychoactive effect. 

However, the publication of all that he researched and concluded was made available to the public which has led to the present hijacking of basic research. 

At present, these synthesized cannabinoids can very easily be found circulating the market, being smuggled around and sold to college graduates. This blind circulation makes the drug even more dangerous than it already was.

The major issue lies here:

  • These synthetic cannabinoids are falsely labelled as legal and natural when being sold to ignorant customers, often marketed as incense, potpourri or herbal mixtures
  • A majority of these cannabinoids are actually controlled substances (either illegal on a federal level or banned by different states)
  • There aren’t any limit to these cannabinoids, these seem to be multiplying every year
  • The cannabinoids have unregulated psychoactive effects that can lead to major impairing symptoms and eventual death
  • Not a lot is clearly known about their effects, especially in the long run, due to their unregulated character
  • These are highly intoxicating and addictive, and can lead to very serious withdrawal syndrome symptoms
  • Use of the drugs at an early stage can be a leading cause of mental health issues and psychiatric disorders in adults
  • Unlike naturally occurring marijuana which is difficult to overdose on, synthetic marijuana overdoses can lead you to the emergency room or poison
  • These cannabinoids can be upto 100 times (or more) more potent than marijuana, leading to psychoactive effects that are beyond our control
  • These cannabinoids are created to learn their effects on human receptors. It’s purpose is to fully activate the CB receptors, while THC does it only partially
  • Some symptoms of synthetic cannabinoid use are agitation, hallucination, paranoia, tremor, seizure, vomiting, chest pain, cardiac arrests, tachycardia, hypokalemia, kidney damage, psychosis, brain damage and even death
  • Bruising and random bleeding are common reasons for emergency calls after the consumption of these cannabinoids.

Alternative to Synthetic Marijuana: Choose Your High Wisely

Synthetic cannabinoids are NOT meant for your consumption and should strictly be restricted to their academic purpose. Rather, you can always opt for a safely sourced marijuana strain that has been extracted for consumption. 

A majority of states have legalized the use of cannabis to varying degrees, allowing citizens to consume high quality and safe products. New York, for one, has legalized both medical and recreational (quite recently) use of the herb. This legal availability of the herb should end the consumption of any synthetic cannabinoid. 

But out of the two, which one should you opt for? 

Medical marijuana is definitely the better option. If you qualify for the medical conditions stated by your state authorities, you can apply for a medical marijuana new york card, that’ll allow you to possess, consume, travel with (inside state borders) and grow your stash without any legal loopholes. 

With a medical marijuana card, you get high quality, high potency products that won’t cause an unregulated high as synthesized marijuana does. These strong doses do not lead to similar levels of addiction nor are they responsible for all the side effects associated with synthetic cannabinoids. 

Any cannabis product can lead to some level of nausea, insomnia or anxiety if not consumed in regulated doses, or when a high dose is administered at an early stage. However, you aren’t prone to bruising, bleeding, strokes, seizures, or brain damage with marijuana use. 

Disclaimer: Some states like Oklahoma, don’t even have a set list of state approved medical conditions that qualify for the use of cannabis. In these situations, you can directly consult your physician to get a medical card. 

To apply for a New York medical card, you must qualify for the following medical conditions:

  • Cancer
  • HIV/ AIDS
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Chronic Pain
  • Severe Debilitating or Life Threatening Condition
  • Cachexia or Wasting Syndrome
  • Severe and Chronic Pain
  • Severe Nausea
  • Seizures
  • Persistent Muscle Spasms
  • Opioid Use Disorder 

Even if your condition doesn’t qualify for medical marijuana recommendations, you can still use cannabis recreationally. While this limits the consumption to less variety of products and lower potency, these are safer options as opposed to unregulated synthetic substitutes. 

To ensure the the product you’re buying is of high quality, you should only buy cannabis products (CBD oils, edibles or flower with less than 0.3% THC) from licensed vendors. To verify if a retailer is legit, you can check the product specifications, read through the labels and ingredient list, and closely evaluate the certificate of analysis (COA). The absence of a COA should be the first red flag, and the only one you need. 

Conclusion

Synthetic Marijuana is a highly intoxicating drug that leads to more negative effects than positive. With most of these cannabinoids being federally illegal, their consumption should be avoided at all costs. 

Everything You Need To Know About Using Medical Marijuana NY For PTSD

medical-marijuana-ptsd

New York is pretty strict with its list of qualifying conditions for a medical marijuana card. But thankfully PTSD does feature on the list. So, how does cannabis figure in with patients who are suffering from PTSD?

What are aspects of cannabis help them out and what forms of consumption are available? Since all smokables are still banned in New York.

Let’s take a deep dive into both these questions through this blog.

Life With PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is an anxiety condition that showcases itself as an anxiety condition, the kind that is caused by disturbing episodes usually because of involvement in military combat or sexual assault.

There are three major markers of PTSD: avoidance, re-experience, and hyperarousal (insomnia, flashbacks, and social isolation). The reason this happens is because of the changes our brain incurs in its chemistry during the trauma. That is when stress hormones and adrenaline interact as they are both hyper-responsive.

Most people who have come back from areas of war experience some form of PTSD but thanks to the federal status of cannabis are nudged towards taking antidepressants and antipsychotics. Both of these are ineffective in helping deal with severe PTSD symptoms.

How Does Cannabis Help

Research into cannabis is an extremely new frontier. There are hardly any targeted medications available for PTSD in the market but with the understanding of the endocannabinoid system increasing with every passing day, cannabis is turning out to be a great way to understand and treat PTSD.

According to a researcher at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic studies where there is ongoing research taking place in the field of cannabis and PTSD. There is a cannabinoid compound called anandamide which is present in much lower quantities in people with PTSD.

In other words, a big cause of PTSD is an endocannabinoid deficiency which is fulfilled by cannabis. Researchers believe that replenishing these endocannabinoids with the help if cannabis is the best way to ensure that PTSD patients get some relief,

Accessing Medical Cannabis in New York

In new york rules regarding medical cannabis are slightly more complicated than the rest. Dispensaries can only give you a 30 day supply based on what the doctor prescribes. You can only get cannabis in the last 7 days as your prescription runs out.

So what forms of cannabis are you allowed to access?

Tinctures

This is one of the most commonly used forms of cannabis consumption. It provides the exact dosage into your system. Usually available with a glass bottle and dropper, tinctures are perfect irrespective of whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newbie.

The base in tinctures is usually alcohol. Cannabis is soaked in alcohol that helps extract all different kinds of cannabinoids from marijuana.

Tinctures are usually consumed in three ways:

  • Orally
  • As an infusion
  • Sublingually

It is fast-acting in comparison to the edibles and is also available in a large variety of flavors and potencies to help you target your exact needs.

Vaping

This method is better than smoking and is legal in New York, but there is a caveat attached. Due to the recent string of adverse reactions you should only be making a purchase from reputed sources.

Vaping is an effective way to get your dose of cannabis.

Pills and Supplements

This is the most convenient way to get your dosage of cannabis. A pill helps eliminate any kind of respiratory issue associated with smoking. Pills are a better option for people who prefer the traditional form of consumption methods over others.

Pills and supplements work in a very similar way to that of edibles.

Other forms of cannabis that are available:

-Solid and semi-solid preparations (lozenges and capsules)
-Non-smokable forms of ground cannabis plant material
-Topicals like transdermal patches and ointments

So, this is all that you need to know about getting cannabis in New York For PTSD. If you have any other questions you can always call up our helpline. Just ensure that you have a safe and secure cannabis experience and get a medical marijuana card before using cannabis in New York as otherwise, it is illegal here.

Cannabis Holds The Potential to Manage Symptoms of Diabetes

Cannabis Holds The Potential to Manage Symptoms of Diabetes

Nearly 2 million people in New York are battling diabetes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, having diabetes is riskier. That’s because it is one of the comorbidities that makes fighting the novel coronavirus more complex. Well, medical marijuana doctors in New York can help you use cannabis to manage the symptoms of diabetes and reduce the risk of COVID-19. 

A Bit More About Diabetes

When there is an abnormal rise in sugar levels in the bloodstream, it leads to diabetes. This usually happens because your body is not able to metabolize sugar and discard it out of your body. As a result, the sugar level in the body rises and this leads to the risk of various infections. 

The symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, blurry vision, numb or tingling feeling on hands and feet, excessive thirst, and hunger. There are a variety of causes that can be linked to the disease. Lack of exercise, genetics, excessive consumption of sugar, and high blood pressure are the prime cause of diabetes.

Medication For Diabetes 

Common diabetes medications include Sulfonylureas, Metformin, Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, Thiazolidinedianoes, and Meglitinidines. These work but with various side-effects like upset stomach, rashes, bloating, risk of liver disease, and diarrhea.  So, this makes their use very risky. So, we need something better. Luckily, cannabis presents us with the properties that make it great for managing diabetes. It’s natural and works without any side-effects. 

Cannabis For Diabetes 

The herb is loaded with lots of properties that make it ideal for managing a lot of health conditions. The main beneficial effect stems from the presence of active compounds like THC and CBD. THC is psychoactive and produces a high while CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a high. So, the active compounds combine to sketch the beneficial effects on the body. Here is how it helps people with diabetes: 

It Regulates Blood Sugar

Research shows that cannabis works great in regulating blood sugar. It influences the mechanism of the body in a way that metabolizing sugar becomes easier. As a result, you are able to shed extra sugar from your bloodstream and prevent the risk of diabetes. 

It Manages Arterial Inflammation

Arterial inflammation is pretty common in people struggling with diabetes. It leads to pain and can be hard to manage. Cannabis has the anti-inflammatory properties that subside inflammation and helps in managing this condition. This brings relief from pain and helps in providing you with the much-needed relaxation. 

It Acts as a Vasodilator

People with diabetes usually have poor blood flow and this leads to numbness in arms and hands. Cannabis is a potent vasodilator that helps in expanding the blood vessels. As a result, blood flow is better and smoother. So, this helps in fighting the problem of constricted blood vessels. With better blood flow, your body is able to channel a better blood flow and this prevents clogging.

It Prevents The Restless Leg Syndrome

People with diabetes often have restless leg syndrome which is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to shake your legs. Cannabis works as a muscle relaxant and helps in preventing this. So, you get the relief you want. 

How to Use Cannabis For Diabetes?

The permissible forms of cannabis in New York include concentrates, oils, capsules, topicals, orals, and sublingual liquids. These are relatively safer to use but the survey shows that a lot of people sneak in to break the laws and smoke cannabis. That’s punishable by law and not a safe practice during COVID-19. Smoking inflames the lungs and leads to irritation. You need to pay attention to this because COVID-19 is a pulmonary disease and it affects your lungs. So, if you smoke, it can increase the risk of contracting the virus. 

So, it’s advisable to prevent this practice if you are doing it. Stick to the legally permissible forms of cannabis. They are much safer and can help you in managing the symptoms of diabetes effectively. 

Medical Marijuana Doctors in New York Can Help

If you are not sure how to use cannabis for your health, it’s better to contact a certified cannabis doctor. The expert has the necessary knowledge about the medicinal effects of cannabis. They are guided by in-depth knowledge and scientific evidence which helps them in providing better guidance about the herb. So, it gives them the edge when it comes to outlining the full benefits of cannabis. 

The doctor can screen your health and analyze it. He or she might ask you some questions to get a better idea of your health. It’s important to respond honestly. This helps in better analysis and providing a better line of treatment. If you want to ask any questions feel free to interact with the doctor. The expert will guide you through and help you get a proper understanding of using the herb. Furthermore, they can suggest the best method of ingestion along with its dosage. 

How to Find The Best Doctor?

To get the best treatment, it’s important to find the right doctor. The doctor can provide you with the right line of treatment. For that, you’ll have to contact a certified clinic which houses the qualified doctors. Follow these steps to find one for yourself.

Do Some Research

Start by looking for the best clinics in your area. Have a look at the ratings and reviews. That’s because they give you an idea about the working prowess about a particular clinic. Pay attention to what people have to say about the clinic. After that, select a list of 3-4 clinics that seem to have good ratings.

Pay Attention to The Certifications

The certifications serve as a token of proof that a particular clinic can be trusted. It shows that the clinic has the necessary expertise and experience in helping patients with the medicinal effects of cannabis. 

Check if They Have a Physical Address

With the rise in the online presence of clinics, there is a rise in fake clinics too. So, you need to be a bit careful while choosing the clinic. A good way to ensure that is by checking if the clinic has a real presence. You can contact the clinic directly and confirm they have a physical address. If something seems shady, it’s a red signal to pin your search elsewhere. 

Once you find the clinic, you can proceed with the simple process to get your cannabis recommendation. The doctor will screen your health to check if you have a qualifying medical condition that can be managed with the help of cannabis. Once you have the card, you can access cannabis legally from the state-certified dispensaries. It’s a good idea to choose online delivery methods due to the risk of COVID-19. Follow the government guideline and maintain social distancing. In case of any doubt, don’t shy away from contacting medical marijuana doctors in New York. They can introduce you to a soothing experience that can help you manage the symptoms of diabetes. 

Use Cannabis Cannabinoids For Managing Chronic Pain

Use Cannabis Cannabinoids For Managing Chronic Pain

Medical marijuana is getting popular as a natural alternative to pain medications and opioids. It contains chemical compounds (called cannabinoids) that have ultimate medicinal properties. These cannabinoids can help ease pain caused by nerve damage, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and various other conditions.

 

With a medical marijuana card NY, you can buy, use, and possess cannabis for managing pain and other conditions. Other conditions in the NY MMJ qualifying conditions’ list include Crohn’s disease, AIDS, Cancer, Epilepsy, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Neuropathies, Parkinson’s disease, PTSD, etc.

 

Also Read- Use Medical Marijuana For Alleviating PTSD Symptoms

 

In this post, we are going to discuss what are the major pain symptoms, how can marijuana help chronic joint pain sufferers ease life, and top strains for fighting this condition.

Symptoms of Chronic Pain

  • Headaches
  • Low back pain
  • Joint pain
  • Muscle spasms

 

Moreover, patients may also experience psychological effects. These include anxiety, sleep problems, depression, suicidal thoughts, etc.

Marijuana For Pain Management

There are various causes of chronic pain. It usually occurs due to an injury or medical condition. Some of the common reasons behind the development of pain are—cancer, nerve damage, fibromyalgia, muscle strains, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and endometriosis.

 

Marijuana compounds such as THC and CBD are effective in managing pain, nausea, etc. Research says that the cannabinoids deliver natural effects, and don’t cause any unpleasant side-effects.

 

The psychoactive compound THC has a similar chemical structure as that of the naturally occurring neurotransmitters in the body. It works by stimulating cannabinoid receptors in the brain, thus delivering positive effects. In fact, THC activates the reward system of the brain, thus reducing pain levels. 

 

There’s a wide range of studies conducted to evaluate the effects of marijuana use in pain management. Some of them are-

 

In 2015, a review of research on marijuana & cannabinoids use for managing various pain conditions was published. It reported that several trials showed positive results. Researchers suggested that cannabinoids may be useful in managing some types of chronic pain, such as neuropathy.

 

According to a research paper in 2016, cannabis use helped a 64 percent reduction in opioid use. Moreover, it improved the quality of life, fewer side-effects, and reduced medication use.

Does CBD Help?

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, which interacts with the brain’s pain receptors, thus delivering pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

 

In a study published in Neurotherapeutics, researchers reported that CBD can help activate or inhibit chemical compounds in the body’s ECS. For instance, CBD stops the absorption of anandamide in the body. Anandamide is a compound associated with pain management. Increased levels of anandamide in the bloodstream mean reduced pain levels.

 

Moreover, CBD can help in reducing cancerous tumors. Various studies have reported that the cannabinoid is effective in managing cancer chemotherapy side-effects.

 

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) said that CBD can help in managing various side-effects related to chemotherapy, such as pain, vomiting, and appetite loss.

 

Are there any side-effects of CBD use?

 

Yes. Common side-effects associated with CBD are—fatigue, diarrhea, and change in appetite. Additionally, Cannabidiol may interact with certain OTC drugs and prescription medications, and deliver negative effects. For example, it’s recommended not to use CBD with medications with a grapefruit warning. So, always talk to a licensed doctor to seek professional help for CBD use for pain management. 

 

Now, the question is—should you use THC, CBD, or combine THC & CBD. Well, it depends. Because everyone has a different condition and requires a customized treatment plan for managing their symptoms. However, medical experts believe that consuming the whole plant can deliver an entourage effect.

Marijuana vs Opioids For Pain Management

Opioids are traditional pain medications, which work by interacting with the nervous system. But, they are addictive and may lead to certain withdrawal symptoms.

 

So, is marijuana better than opioids? Well, it can be used as an alternative to addictive opioids. Researchers have conducted various surveys and studies on marijuana and opioids use for pain management.

 

According to a survey conducted on 3000 medical marijuana consumes, researchers noticed that 30 percent of the participants used opioids in the past six months. Moreover, 81 percent of the participants agreed that cannabis was more effective alone than mixing it with opioids.

 

In a cancer-related pain study published in 2010, participants were given oral sprays of a THC-CBD extract. Researchers compared the effects of the THC-CBD extract with opioids. The study reported that the extract delivered better pain-relieving effects.

Marijuana Strains For Chronic Pain

The type of cannabis strain you consume has a significant impact on the medicinal effects you receive. No two patients can have similar symptoms, thus they require different strains for managing their conditions. It’s good to do comprehensive research on cannabinoids’ effect on your body, and select the right strains that suit you the best.

 

Here are some of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain management-

 

  • White Widow
  • Northern Lights
  • Sour Diesel
  • Master Kush
  • ACDC
  • Cataract Kush
  • Redwood Kush
  • Blue Dream
  • Bubba Kush

The COVID-19 Safest Alternatives to Cannabis Smoking

Although smoking is the most popular method of cannabis consumption, it’s not safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It may increase the risks of lung disease. However, you can opt for safer alternatives.

 

Also Read- How to Be Safe With Cannabis During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Cannabis Oils & Concentrates

Cannabis oils such as THC oils and CBD oils contain high concentrations of cannabinoids with alcohol or glycerine solutions. You can put a few drops of cannabis oil under the tongue and the cannabinoids will be absorbed through the mouth tissues. Marijuana concentrates can be consumed through dabbing or vaping.

Topicals

These are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and creams, which can be applied directly to the skin. Topicals are particularly used for localized pain and inflammation relief. You can also buy transdermal patches, which are more potent than lotions.

Edibles

Edibles are foods and beverages, which contain cannabinoids. So, you can eat or drink cannabinoids, and receive medicinal effects. You have a wide range of options—brownies, cookies, candies, etc.

 

Eating cannabis is one of the easiest methods of cannabis consumption. However, it doesn’t deliver quick effects as smoking and vaping do. You have to wait from 30 minutes to 1 hour after consumption to experience their effects.

Key Takeaways

Marijuana can be used as an effective treatment for chronic pain. It contains more than 100 cannabinoids, which are packed with medicinal properties. THC and CBD have amazing anti-inflammatory properties and can help in relieving pain, nausea, etc.

 

When compared to opioids, marijuana delivers better pain-relieving effects. It isn’t addictive. Cannabis compounds are available in various forms, such as oils, tinctures, concentrates, topicals, and edibles. These are smokeless methods of cannabis consumption and are safe to use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

To access cannabis for pain management legally, you need a doctor’s recommendation. With telemedicine, you can apply for your medical cannabis card NY from home. The process is-

 

  • Sign up an account
  • Talk to a licensed doctor through HIPAA-compliant platform
  • Receive your MMJ rec letter via email

How To Be Safe With Cannabis During COVID-19?

Cannabis During COVID-19

Ever since COVID-19 reached a point where the world had to undergo a forced hiatus, health and safety rose in priority. In such times it’s important to maintain extra caution with everything including cannabis. Most of the cannabis consumers have different medical reasons for consumption. And these same medical reasons make them more vulnerable to getting sick with COVID-19. So safety with cannabis is very crucial. But how do you ensure that?

Start from the most basic necessity- medical card. Prefer online clinics to get a medical cannabis card in NY. From the evaluation process to receiving a recommendation, everything is sorted online. This way you avoid any possibility of exposure to the virus. When the time comes to buy, handle and use cannabis, follow these tips to be safe.

Turn to smokeless options

Since the beginning of the pandemic, smoking is considered a risky way of consuming cannabis. In present times, our body needs to be in the best shape possible. And smoking or vaping contributes in the opposite way. These methods put the respiratory system under stress which renders it weak against COVID-19. The result?

According to the data collected through the 7 months of the pandemic, smoke causes the individual to develop complications of COVID-19 like pneumonia. In the worst cases, ventilators may also be needed for survival.

A word to the wise, move to smokeless options. Consider using cannabis edibles like chocolates, gummies, beverages etc. Or move to sublingual methods like tinctures and sublingual strips. Cannabis has dozens of smokeless options that do not hamper the health of the respiratory system.

Be selfish with cannabis

Until the COVID-19 pandemic has a solution, get selfish with cannabis for good. 

I understand the need for socializing with cannabis. Joints are passed through the group with every puff and a stash of buds and edibles are also shared within the social circle. It’s an etiquette that’s followed without being reiterated. But considering the fact that COVID-19 is an infectious disease with a long incubation period and asymptomatic hosts, sharing of anything poses the risk of getting sick.

A joint that has been doing rounds can be a possible carrier of the virus and so can be the stash of buds and edibles. The worst part is that if one gets it, it’s highly likely that everyone else who shared the joint and stash gets it too. That’s the infamous chain of infection. 

So stay safe by getting your own stock and saying no to any shared cannabis product. 

Opt for deliveries

Coming back to the point of exposure, the idea of social isolation and physical distancing is to reduce exposure. If you do not go out or interact with anyone, the risk of getting sick is automatically low. But what about when you have to get a restock of cannabis? You will have to visit the dispensary then, right? Wrong. 

The cannabis industry has been especially particular about following all the safety protocols with utter diligence. Keeping up with the idea of social isolation and distancing, most dispensaries across the US have started home deliveries. Their catalog is available online so that you can make an online order and get it delivered to your doorstep. If the dispensary near you does not offer this facility, try the online stores and see if they deliver to your area. 

This is the best way to make sure that minimal contact is maintained. 

Only buy quality cannabis products

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of good health during the pandemic. Any sort of weakness or sickness puts you in a vulnerable position. 

Holding on to the importance of health, make sure that your cannabis products are of good quality. Only a licensed store can give assurance of high quality and safety. Cannabis products from illegal sources run the risk of contamination and molds that can harm your body if consumed. 

So look for proper labels, lab tests and licensed sources only to ensure that your cannabis products are safe. 

Disinfect your cannabis packages properly

As COVID-19 developed into a global pandemic, several facts about this new virus came to the fore. One of them was its survival period on surfaces. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, SARS-CoV-2 can live on surfaces like cardboard, plastic and aluminum anywhere from a few hours to 3 days. This makes cannabis packaging a potential carrier of the virus. 

Whether you buy cannabis from the store or get it delivered to your home, it’s crucial that you take time to disinfect the packaging. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains an extensive list of cleaning agents that can be used for disinfecting purposes. You can also use bleach or isopropyl alcohol to clean the packaging. However, steer clear from home remedies like vinegar as they do not protect against the virus. 

Consider growing your own cannabis

In the time of COVID-19, people decided to become self-sufficient and pass their extra hours by growing their own cannabis. This trend is still growing and is also a great idea in terms of safety. 

When you start having your own cannabis harvest, you wouldn’t have to leave the safety of your home. No more trips to the dispensaries, no more extra expenses and no more worry of restocks. All you have to do is take a walk to your backyard. 

It is not a difficult job to have your own cannabis plant. All you need is to maintain the proper growing conditions and keep a regular check on the plant’s growth. As long as you maintain it, you’ll have a long time supply of cannabis at home.

Before getting started, just remember to acquaint yourself with the cannabis laws of your state to avoid any legal issues.

Avoid overindulgence

In present times when a medical emergency can happen any time, it’s best that you are always in your senses. Avoid staying stoned throughout the day. Consume cannabis according to your dose so that you receive the effects without feeling too high or getting a hangover the next day. 

Overindulgence also puts your safety as well as that of others around you at risk. Your mind isn’t in the right place to follow every precaution correctly which only raises the risk of exposure. So stick to a proper dose for some time and keep your sense intact for the sake of safety.

Having gone through the many tips of staying safe with cannabis, it’s time that you employ them in your routine and follow them as diligently as possible to stay safe during the pandemic.

Coronavirus VS Flu: How To Identify The Difference?

Coronavirus VS Flu

The coronavirus and the flu have quite similar symptoms. From runny nose to fever, sore throat, and congested chest, all these symptoms will appear in both, the coronavirus affected patient and a flu sufferer. While it is completely true that both have the potential to cause mild to severe illnesses and the viruses are respiratory in nature. You also have to take note that according to the CDC influenza is caused by flu A and flu B viruses. Whereas the COVID-19 is caused by a new type of flu A virus. This virus is different from the existing viruses that cause seasonal flu. So, how can someone learn whether he has the coronavirus or the flu? Read on to find out.

The Viruses Belong To Two Different Families

Scientifically speaking both the viruses are somewhat similar in nature. The RNA surrounding the viruses have a similar composition. The only difference is that of the outer protein layer causing the immune response. The outer layer has two different pathogens. These pathogens can cause the virus to behave in a particular manner. Perhaps the reason why it is easier to recover from the impact of influenza. 

Also, you have to keep in mind that the appearance of the viruses is very different. Coronavirus appears crown-like under magnification and the proteins on the outer layer interact differently with the cells in your body. In fact, the types of viruses associated with the coronavirus are closely related to the ones causing respiratory infections. So, it is safe to say that COVID-19 has a closer relation to SARS and MERS than influenza. 

We Know A Lot Of Things About Influenza

The coronavirus is new to us, but the Influenza or the flu dates back to 1993. Scientists and researchers have long searched about the virus and they know how it interacts with the human body. Not only this but we all know how the virus works when it affects, and who is more susceptible to its effect. 

Influenza is a seasonal flu and it mostly affects people between the fall and winter season. Only pregnant women, young kids, and older people are more susceptible to this virus. Mainstream doctors are of the view that you can treat influenza with the help of effective treatment plans. Most doctors will provide medicines in order to treat the symptoms of influenza. Although you can treat the mild symptoms by taking rest. The effects of influenza will wear off in 5-7 days and a healthy immune system is quite adept at fighting back. 

In contrast, so far we have heard nothing about the viruses’ seasonal nature. In fact, we have entered the month of May and the cases are constantly rising. So far, the US has 1,527,664 confirmed cases of the virus out of which 346,389 have already recovered. This is to say that there are no seasonal elements here, but people who are at high risk of contracting the virus include elderlies or have underlying medical conditions. 

That said, you also have to keep in mind that scientists are still learning a lot of things about the virus. Every week the medical community learns new things about the coronavirus. Only recently it was found out that loss of taste, smell, and rashes are also major symptoms of the coronavirus. 

The Transferrable Nature Of The Coronavirus

One of the heated topics of discussions about the coronavirus is how fast can the virus spread. The researchers believe that the R-Naught factor decides how many other people can get the coronavirus. For seasonal flu or influenza, the R0 rises from 0.9 to 2.1. Simply put, if you are mildly affected by the virus, you can easily spread the virus to one or two individuals. However, most reports suggest that the average R0 for the COVID-9 goes up to 3.87. This means that a single coronavirus patient can affect between 3-4 people. In comparison to influenza, the R0 rate is quite high and people are more infectious to the coronavirus than the seasonal flu. 

You must have noticed that patients with coronavirus have a longer period of incubation period. The incubation period for influenza is quite short. Ideally, it lasts between 5-6 days, sometimes even shorter. With COVID-19 the period can last up to 15 days or more. This is why people are at higher risk of contracting the virus. 

Asymptomatic Transmissions

At the onset of the virus, we were only worried about staying away from patients who get affected. Several Rules and guidelines were issued, the world was turned into a giant prison, and social distancing became the key to affect the virus. However, as people learned more about the virus, reports regarding its asymptomatic nature started to appear everywhere. In simple words, asymptomatic means that a patient carrying the coronavirus with no or very little symptoms can easily transmit the virus to susceptible people. 

According to a report, 41 percent of the people can spread the virus without even knowing about it. This also means that if an old person or a person with an underlying condition comes in contact with the asymptomatic patient, that person is most likely to get affected by the virus. On the other hand, if you have a common cold or the flu, you will show symptoms with no asymptomatic carriers. 

In fact, we all feel pretty miserable after getting affected by the flu. Whereas asymptomatics show no sign of fever or cold. Which, in turn, is a great concern for our medical community and the authorities. However, social distancing can help curb the spread of the virus. And it is an effective solution to this problem. Also, if you think that fever is one of the major symptoms of the coronavirus, you are highly mistaken. So far, the medical community has reported that more and more patients are coming up with symptoms such as loss of taste, cough, and skin rashes. This also means that not everyone with corona gets a fever and respiratory illnesses appear quite late. The virus is inconsistent when compared to seasonal flu. 

COVID-9 Is A Deadly Pandemic

You might wonder, you already know a lot of things about the virus. However, trust me, some people still take things lightly. They think that people have learned to blow things out of proportion. Some people believe that the virus can be treated with the help of medical marijuana. To be honest, medical marjuana cannot treat COVID-19. You can get in touch with medical marijuana doctors in NY or any other marijuana expert to find the same. Also, Yes, I understand that staying calm is quite necessary, but ignoring the rising toll deaths can prove bad for someone at high risk in your family. 

Early reports from China showed the death rate at 3 percent. Currently, the death rate for the US ranges from 1.3 to 2.5 percent. This means that one in 50 gets the infection. You also might wonder that the rate is not high, but when you compare it to the seasonal flu, the rate definitely surpassed all expectations. For seasonal flu, the percentage of death rate lies between 0-0.10 percent. That means one in 1,000 patients get affected by the seasonal flu. All in all, this proves why this pandemic is more deadly than influenza.