Jeff Shell, CEO of NBCUniversal, was the first C-suite executive at a major U.S. corporation to share his coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnosis with the general public. In this episode of the Smile podcast, Shell shares his experience dealing with COVID-19 and the stigma associated with contracting the coronavirus with globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh. He also explores COVID-19’s impact on the entertainment industry and how major theme parks and other entertainment venues plan to reopen following the coronavirus pandemic.
What Is It Like to Contract COVID-19?
For Shell, COVID-19 caused symptoms that were far worse than those associated with the flu. Shell experienced a persistent fever, felt lethargic, and lost weight due to COVID-19. The symptoms lasted about two weeks, and they ranged in terms of severity.
Shell said he has no idea how he contracted COVID-19. He underwent testing to determine if his initial symptoms were associated with COVID-19, and the testing verified he was dealing with the coronavirus. Meanwhile, Shell’s daughter also received a COVID-19 assessment and tested negative for the virus.
In the months after contracting COVID-19, Shell has made a full recovery. Shell no longer experiences COVID-19 symptoms and is using his experience with the coronavirus to educate others. In doing so, Shell is hoping to help combat COVID-19 and the stigma that those diagnosed with the coronavirus often face.
How to Manage a COVID-19 Infection
Although COVID-19 research is ongoing, there are still many unknowns about the coronavirus. By following U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, people are well-equipped to avoid contracting COVID-19 or spreading it to others.
In addition, elderly individuals and other people who are classified as “high risk” should take extra precautions to guard against COVID-19. These individuals should understand the dangers associated with COVID-19 and undergo immediate testing if they or someone close to them may be dealing with a coronavirus infection.
How Will COVID-19 Impact the Global Economy?
Along with impact on the physical and mental health and wellbeing of people around the world, COVID-19 will have long-term effects on the global economy. Shell pointed out that companies need to do their part to keep the global economy running. At the same time, these businesses must prioritize safety to ensure that all employees are protected against COVID-19.
Shell noted that some companies have furloughed thousands of employees due to the pandemic, and these businesses are trying to figure out the proper steps to ensure these workers can return to their daily jobs soon. At NBCUniversal, officials are exploring ways to get employees back to work as quickly and safely as possible, Shell said. NBCUniversal will continue to prioritize the health and wellbeing of its staff as the pandemic progresses. With this approach, NBCUniversal can ensure that its employees can safely perform everyday tasks and limit the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Learn More About Shell’s Experience with COVID-19
Shell has a unique perspective on COVID-19, as he is the head of an American entertainment and media conglomerate and has firsthand experience of what it is like to contract the coronavirus. In this episode of the Smile podcast, listeners can learn about Shell’s experience with COVID-19 and gain insights to help them guard against the virus. To find out more what Shell has to say about COVID-19, listen to the podcast today.