The Daily

Where Is This Pandemic Headed?

Oct 7, 2020

In this insightful discussion, Donald G. McNeil Jr., a seasoned science and health reporter for The New York Times, shares his expertise on the coronavirus pandemic. He talks about the precarious balance of short-term pessimism and long-term optimism regarding COVID-19. The conversation delves into regional pandemic challenges, the promising advancements in vaccine development, and the public's mixed reception towards vaccination. McNeil also touches on the impact of political events on public health perceptions, offering a comprehensive look at the pandemic's evolving landscape.

25:58

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Episode guests

Donald G McNeil Jr.

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

The Pandemic's Waves: Regional Responses and Challenges

7min

Concerns About COVID-19 Trends and Optimism for the Future

2min

Optimism for Vaccine Development and Pandemic Resolution

2min

Vaccine Optimism and Public Perception

13min

COVID-19 Vaccine Guidelines and Political Turmoil

3min

The pandemic has killed more than one million people around the world, at least 210,000 in the United States alone. The illness has infiltrated the White House and infected the president.

Today, we offer an update on measures to fight the coronavirus and try to predict the outbreak’s course.

Guest: Donald G. McNeil Jr., a science and health reporter for The New York Times.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily

Background reading:

Fearing a “twindemic” — the onset of both the flu and the coronavirus — health experts are pushing people to get influenza shots.
Here’s how to identify the different symptoms of the flu and Covid-19.
Donald tells us about his job trying to “cover the future.”

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