The number of COVID-19-related cases in select parts of the world has shown declines but is something that should not get everyone complacent. Like in Colorado, no new coronavirus deaths have been reported according to recent official estimates. Statewide figures tied to the COVID-19 strain have been spiraling downwards. However, fears on a potentially bigger second wave are in the air.
In a report from the Denver Post, deaths in the state have considerably declined since peaking in mid-April. Hospitalizations have also dipped with only 297 people currently admitted over in Colorado. This marks the first time since Mar. 27 that less than 300 people have been hospitalized due to COVID-19.
And while the figures are comforting, it may be best to note that the state has changed the way it keeps track of COVID-19 numbers. There was apparently some discrepancy after the Department of Public Health of Colorado admitted that they were counting those who died from the coronavirus but passed away due to other causes. Now, they are separating the list of the cause of death into two: deaths among cases and deaths due to COVID-19, Fox News reported. Based on the latest estimates, there are now 26,378 cases and 1,181 deaths due to the coronavirus.
However, it remains that the worst may yet come. Several models for Colorado were presented by Dr. Jon Samet, dean of the Colorado School of Public Health. In the graphic, he showed in most scenarios based on the peak that the COVID-19 showed in April, a bigger one could be happening next. The model takes into consideration several factors being done today. That includes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines such as social distancing, wearing masks and discouraging the elderly from going outside.
There were different scenarios in the models. In each one, it showed how the impact would be on hospitals if locals would not adhere to the CDC guidelines. That includes possibly running out of ICU beds if people start getting complacent, CBS reported.
“As far as what we are asking the public to do, it’s really to have … fewer than half as many interactions as they would normally,” Dr. Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, said.
Herlihy is aware that people want to go out and enjoy the summer and outdoors. This can be done but with some restrictions in place. She urges most to try and lessen interactions compared to the normal, something that may be for their own protection and good.