COVID-19 Update: Monday, August 31st

It's a little heavy today. Covid Kids, the CDC, colleges, reinfection and more.

1. COVID in kids is up to 9.3% of all cases in the US according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, but deaths among those under age 18 remain very low. I am not currently reporting hospitalization rates for children because hospitalization data for children currently only represent 21 states and therefore is not particularly valuable.

2. The CDC has changed its previous ruling about testing asymptomatic people. Those who have close contact with known or suspected cases can seek testing. This change comes amid significant concerns over the prior change. There is some question as to how the prior decision (not to test) was made and who was involved. While the change to again recommend testing may cause additional confusion among the public and professionals, it was the right course of action.

3. The University of Alabama records 481 news cases in 3 days. The University of Iowa is reporting over 500 cases. Universities and colleges around the country are experiencing cases as they resume face to face classes.

4. A man in Nevada was the first documented re-infection case in the US. He first got COVID in April with a moderate case. After recovering he once again became ill after a full month of being recovered and May 31st became ill with a different strain. This time he is considered a severe case requiring hospitalization and oxygen support. This is the first case I am aware of in which the second infection was more severe than the first, but it does indicate that second infections may not necessarily be less severe.

5. Four people at the RNC in Charlotte have tested positive for COVID.

6. A poultry plant in CA has shut down after COVID killed 8 workers and infected over 350.

7. Schools opened in Wuhan, China on Friday.

8. Numbers are Sunday were very good. Deaths were in the 300 range and cases in the 30k range. While Sunday’s are typically lower numbers in general, I am hopeful.

FINAL THOUGHTS: It is Monday and while we should all feel rested and renewed from the weekend, chances are good that you may not. So, I want to encourage you to acknowledge that and remember not to make big decisions when you are tired, hungry, or emotionally distressed. Deep breaths as we start September. Be kind to others and seek opportunities to show kindness and compassion, it will make you feel better. This year has been long and trying, there is no denying that. You have done well, it’s ok to be tired and worn. But we can do this. Even if all we can do is remain silent when provoked. Sometimes its what we have, and in those moments, it is enough. You can do it.

NOTE: I have attempted this post 4x today but for some reason, it keeps posting without the correct formatting, without the heading, and without the picture from 1918. I have no idea what that is about but I am making this one last attempt....