One of the frustrating characteristics of this crisis is the uncertainty. I read of death rates ranging from 9.9% (Italy) to 0.5% (Germany). From the information I am gathering, I still believe the highest risks are for elderly and people with pre-existing conditions, but then you read of younger people being admitted to hospitals. Some experts are saying it is similar to influenza and that the overall number of deaths world-wide has not increased because of Covid-19 and it is similar to a regular influenza season. But then why are hospitals in some areas being overrun with cases? This article “How deadly is the coronavirus? It’s still far from clear. by retired UK pathologist Dr. John Lee in The Spectator captures my doubts about what we are experiencing.
As you can see from the video above, Uzbekistan is putting a lot of resources into combating the spread of the virus. They also are building quarantine shelters and makeshift hospitals. We are sheltering-in-place and not allowed to drive cars and only leave the house with a mask if obtaining food or medicine/medical care. This morning I looked out my block and saw a city bus come by and pick up a woman and she went in to the crowded bus. I still hear cars but much less traffic than normal. We sent everyone home from the school and only have a skeletal crew watching the campus.
There are 158 confirmed cases in Uzbekistan with I believe 2 deaths. I do not know the number of testing kits here. I imagine the only people getting tested are those with symptoms and/or with known direct contact with people with the disease.
This sitting around the house is getting old. I am yearning for a long bicycle ride!
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