The Intelligence from The Economist Intensive scare: covid-19 ravages America
Dec 4, 2020
Stephen Gibbs, the Venezuela correspondent for The Economist, discusses the ruling party's strategies as it prepares to dominate the National Assembly elections, sidelining opposition leader Juan Guaidó. Adam Roberts, the Midwest correspondent, highlights the harrowing COVID-19 crisis unfolding in America, particularly in the Midwest, where healthcare systems are on the brink. Oliver Morton reflects on the rich legacy and tragic demise of the Arecibo telescope, which once played a crucial role in astronomy and showcased humanity's quest for knowledge.
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Grim COVID-19 Milestones in America
- America faces a grim COVID-19 milestone, with record daily deaths and hospitalizations exceeding 100,000.
- 90% of US hospitals are in coronavirus hot zones, and healthcare systems are overwhelmed.
Overwhelmed Midwest Hospitals
- Midwest hospitals are nearing capacity, with ICUs at 80-90% occupancy, according to healthcare workers.
- Hospitals are clearing space by sending home inpatients and adding ICU beds while postponing elective surgeries.
Misconceptions about Hospital Capacity
- The public and politicians may not fully grasp the severity of overwhelmed hospitals, including the impact of cancelling elective surgeries.
- Cancelling elective surgeries can delay crucial cancer treatments and other important interventions.