Short Wave Why The Pandemic Is Getting Worse... And How To Think About The Future
Jul 16, 2020
NPR science correspondent Richard Harris dives deep into the current state of the pandemic, discussing the concerning rise in COVID-19 cases and the critical need for expanded testing. He highlights the impacts of premature state reopenings and the challenges posed by colder months ahead. With a focus on shifting demographics, he explains why younger racial groups are facing disproportionate mortality rates. Richard also addresses advancements in treatment and vaccination, offering insights on navigating the ongoing health crisis.
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Arizona's Reopening
- Arizona reopened early, lifting the stay-at-home order in mid-May.
- This led to crowded situations like open nightclubs without masks, contributing to a surge in cases and strained ICU capacity.
Recurring Pandemic Challenges
- The US faces similar pandemic challenges as in March and April, including insufficient resources and testing.
- Ignoring public health guidelines like mask-wearing and social distancing exacerbates the problem.
Testing Bottleneck
- Testing capacity improved but hasn't kept pace with the surge in cases, leading to backlogs and supply shortages.
- Increased testing in nursing homes and prisons, while beneficial, further strains the testing system.