The
calm…
In
the early weeks of the pandemic, infections were increasing at rates of between
10% and 25% in most regions and countries. Governments were shocked and
surprised by the attack of Covid-19 and struggled to catch up and contain the
virus. Some managed better than others.
During
the last month we have seen infection and death rates drop to 2%, still a large
number in many countries. In regions that were late in acting, such as the
United States and the United Kingdom, numbers are still on the high side: in
the US there are over 826,000 cases and 45,300 deaths (138 per million
population), rising at 3.3% and 6.9% respectively; in the UK, 129,000 cases and
17,300 deaths (260 per million) in April. These are only officially published
numbers, though. The real totals could be a lot higher.
In
Canada, most provinces are beginning to see where the peak will be. There are
still a few problem areas. While the deaths total 1,834 (49 per million
population), the growth curves are beginning to flatten.
In
Alberta, our home province, cases have spiked over the last couple of weeks.
The recent growth in case numbers (to 3,095) is partly a result of increased
testing but also partly due to some community spreading where physical
distancing was not practiced to the degree it could and should have been. The real
situation will not be revealed for a couple of weeks when the current positive
tests work their way through the system. If there is a positive, it is that less
than 150 have required hospitalization.
We
are not out of the woods just yet, but people are “breathing” a little easier.
A third of those infected have recovered. The greatest proportion of deaths has
unfortunately been in long-term care facilities which are bearing the brunt of
the disease and now will be getting the most attention to halt its spread.
Smiles…
It
is hard to find good or happy news theses days. I scour the newspaper daily for
something that will bring a laugh of a smile. The comics pages does not always
do the job but maybe we all need to look for any place for a family picnic (as shown in today's Calgary Herald) . . .
. . . or find a “happy box.”
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