June 30, 2020

Since Idaho moved into Stage 4 of economic re-opening, there has been a resurgence of Covid-19 viral cases in both Idaho and Eastern Oregon. Even in rural Malheur county, the virus is spreading more rapidly, tripling case numbers in the last 15 days. See HERE to look at Idaho viral counts (look for Covid-19 demographics Tab).

In Idaho, the 18-29 year old age group is experiencing the greatest number of cases.

The spread in this age level may be due to a perception that young people are not at risk for serious consequences of getting ill. Unfortunately, this is not always true and the risk to others is significant due to an average 20-day viral shedding period. One infected person, with or without symptoms, can infect numerous other people, who then go on to infect others. As shown below, older persons are paying for this infection with their lives.

Death rates are not currently rising, but I suspect that these numbers will climb once the virus has longer to damage infected lungs 2-4 weeks after initial infection. For survivors, detrimental effects due to a powerful lung infection may be long term.

The politicalization of common sense prevention measures may be providing an avenue for the virus to spread. The virus is highly contagious and is easily spread when given the opportunity. I encourage everyone to practice safe measures of social distancing and face coverings in public in order to reduce the risk of getting ill.

Covid-19 is not like other flu virus. Covid-19 is dangerous, not pleasant, and expensive if hospitalized.

Sharing is usually a fun activity. In the case of Covid-19, sharing is not recommended.