Today, Explained Zeke Emanuel’s exit strategy
Apr 16, 2020
Zeke Emanuel, an oncologist and bioethicist who advised former President Obama, discusses strategies for safely reopening amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights the necessity of improved infrastructure and a robust testing strategy that includes asymptomatic individuals. Emanuel emphasizes the role of technology in contact tracing and warns of the potential dangers of a rush to reopen. He also reflects on the societal changes required after the pandemic to strengthen social safety nets and ensure public well-being.
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US Unprepared for Reopening
- The US isn't ready to reopen due to high COVID-19 case numbers and inadequate containment infrastructure.
- We need 4-6 weeks to descend the curve and shift from mitigation to containment, isolating new cases and tracing contacts.
Focus on Testing Frontline Workers
- Test frontline workers weekly, like hospital staff, grocery workers, and first responders.
- This requires a million tests daily, focusing on potential spreaders, not just treating the symptomatic.
Nurse Requests Better Mask
- A nurse asked a CBS reporter for a better mask, highlighting inadequate PPE for healthcare workers.
- The reporter was wearing a trash bag as protection, emphasizing the disparity in safety measures.