Trusting Information Regarding Covid 19
Traveling Ink has spent hours gathering hopefully helpful information to provide to its visitors regarding Covid 19. That said, there's a disclaimer at the bottom of this website highlighting the fact that Traveling Ink specializes in travel and event planning, not in infectious disease. So why are we pointing it out again here? To make the point that the source of information matters.
There is a lot of incomplete, somewhat misleading, and downright incorrect information online regarding Coronavirus. So, should we turn off our televisions, power down our tablets, or turn our phones off? Not necessarily (though you must make good decisions on what is helpful for you in regard to information overwhelm). Astronaut Chris Hadfield is quoted as saying, “The more you know, the less you fear.” Knowledge can be very powerful, and having the right information may help keep us (and others) safe. But make sure your information is coming from trusted resources.
Traveling Ink recommends the CDC, the World Health Organization, or anything from Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Visit CDC.gov
Visit the World Health Organization
Overview of Covid 19 from the World Health Organization
Flattening The Curve - Why It's Important
You likely have heard the phrase "flatten the curve" too many times to recount in the past couple of weeks. It's strange how quickly a term that we had no knowledge of a month or two ago, can have such a presence in everyday life currently. For those who are not yet familiar, flattening the curve at it's essence is not about reducing the number of Covid 19 cases, but instead reducing how many confirmed cases arrive at one time, potentially overwhelming our health care system. If we can spread the number of confirmed cases over time (months and seasons instead of weeks), then our health care systems are less likely to run out of beds, personal protective gear, staff, and equipment such as ventilators. If there is less strain on the system, then patients are more likely to get better care.
For those who are visual, the Washington Post published an insightful article along with a simulator explaining why outbreaks spread exponentially and how to "flatten the curve. The video below is a visual synopsis of the article.
Social Distancing
The video above shows the advantages of social distancing to "flatten the curve". The less we move around, the less direct contact we have with people. The less contact we have, theoretically the less likely we are to come in contact with someone who may be positive for the virus but not showing symptoms yet. Many health professionals and government leaders are urging people to stay at home as much as possible. If you must venture out for groceries or perscriptions, it is advised that we social distance even while in public. Experts are advising people to keep at least 6 feet between them and other people in their environment.
What Does 6 Feet Look Like?
If you are six feet tall, you've got a built in measurement tool. Simply hold your arms out and your "wing span" is approximately six feet also. For those of us who are shorter, or need a visual reference, two large dogs back to back are about six feet in length. The average black bear or horse are also about six feet tall. So just envision a black bear taking a nap between you and the person next to you, and you should be in good shape.
Other Tips for Social Distancing
Covid 19 Peak Hospital Projections by State
The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) an independent health research center has projected peak hospital usage resources by state on their website here. Please remember these are just projected estimates (data-driven, but not infallible).