Future of Covid

Hmm. COVID and its pathway through the global population. Arc of infection through the USA. Local infection rates and death. Infection patterns and spread. How selective is the virus for specific age groups, ethnicities, regions?


We don’t know a lot about the virus. We are learning, but don’t know everything. We experiment with methods to slow the infection rate. We try different treatment methods, too, including different meds, positions in bed, equipment and therapies. Treatments vary in degrees depending on patient age and their collection of health issues.


Avoiding the virus altogether has been a work in progress. We know distancing works. We know open air spaces help. We know face masks work. Even types of face masks have been tested for effectiveness. Washing hands frequently, not touching our face, and other small tips have lessened infection rates.


We even learned these avoidance methods serve two beneficiaries: the self and those nearby.


This is a community disease because it spreads among us. Therefore, it requires community action to lessen the disease’s impact and spread.


Wearing face masks work. Washing hands works. Distancing works. You and I must do these things. Together we protect ourselves and others. We protect the community.


Straightforward and factually true. The science says so. Doctors say so. Logic supports this.


It is up to us to make it work. Together in Illinois we have seen this work. Don’t ease up yet. COVID has a future.


We don’t understand what that future is. It may produce resurgence infections. It may be a repeat virus for the same patients. It may weaken infected patients years later with other diseases and organ failures. No one knows.


We watch other states and regions. Their experiences indicate lax actions and public policy increased vulnerability to infection. Resurgent infection patterns have occurred. These are areas where masks, distancing and hand washing were not done routinely. They are paying the price now.


Because of that, travel to those regions is not advised. Interaction with people who have traveled to those regions is not advised. Our future with this disease relies on our sticking with what we know works.


Don’t give up now. Keep up your guard. The life or health you protect may be your own. Most probably it will be the life of another. Both you and the other are important. It is what comprises community.


Community rules!


June 27, 2020