The protests against racial injustice taking place all across the country are occurring at the same time many places are starting to open up (including in NYC).
And lots of people are wondering what that means for #COVID19 case numbers in the next few weeks.
So let's discuss…
— Craig Spencer MD MPH (@Craig_A_Spencer) June 8, 2020
Dr. Spencer is an ER worker in New York City, and an Ebola survivor. So he knows what he’s talking about here:
There is still transmission all throughout the country.
Right now, case numbers are INCREASING in 20 states + Puerto Rico.
The curves for Arizona, the Carolinas, Arkansas and Utah are particularly worrisome.
In addition, case numbers in 12 states + Guam are 'mostly the same'. pic.twitter.com/tXj0WhOP89
— Craig Spencer MD MPH (@Craig_A_Spencer) June 8, 2020
But being close together – regardless of mask wearing – carries an increased risk. We just don't know HOW MUCH yet.
In addition, the use of tear gas & holding arrested protesters in small holding cells will also contribute to ⬆️ transmission (and those actions should stop).
— Craig Spencer MD MPH (@Craig_A_Spencer) June 8, 2020
This 'secondary transmission' may be delayed. So, if we don't see an increase in the next few days, it doesn't mean there weren't new infections.
Regardless, protesters know the risk. They (and I) strongly believe that addressing 400 yrs of racial injustice is worth the risk…
— Craig Spencer MD MPH (@Craig_A_Spencer) June 8, 2020
Knowing there's ⬆️ risk, I recommend anyone protesting gets tested. And if you're having symptoms, you should quarantine yourself.
If possible, try to limit contact with loved ones who aren't joining you in the streets.
Looking for a testing site? ?https://t.co/9Nk7TKNlFE
— Craig Spencer MD MPH (@Craig_A_Spencer) June 8, 2020
Our horribly delayed response, lack of strong federal leadership, and early testing debacles have had long-term impacts.
Just look at this sad, sad graph.
We're stuck at a plateau. For months.
As almost all the other early hard-hit countries have peaked and declined. pic.twitter.com/E3Wqw8oEpA
— Craig Spencer MD MPH (@Craig_A_Spencer) June 8, 2020
Excellent Thread: Protests During A Pandemic — Balancing the RisksPost + Comments (205)