The Intelligence from The Economist Intensive scare: covid-19 ravages America
Dec 4, 2020
Stephen Gibbs, the Venezuela correspondent for The Economist, discusses the ruling party's strategies as it prepares to dominate the National Assembly elections, sidelining opposition leader Juan Guaidó. Adam Roberts, the Midwest correspondent, highlights the harrowing COVID-19 crisis unfolding in America, particularly in the Midwest, where healthcare systems are on the brink. Oliver Morton reflects on the rich legacy and tragic demise of the Arecibo telescope, which once played a crucial role in astronomy and showcased humanity's quest for knowledge.
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Misconceptions about Hospital Capacity
- The public and politicians may not fully grasp the severity of overwhelmed hospitals, including the impact of cancelling elective surgeries.
- Cancelling elective surgeries can delay crucial cancer treatments and other important interventions.
Strain on Rural Hospitals
- Rural hospitals, already strained by closures, are easily overwhelmed by even a few patients.
- Patients travel up to 150 miles to reach small hospitals, which are functioning at over 100% ICU capacity for months.
Reasons for Midwest Surge
- The Midwest's COVID-19 surge is attributed to colder weather, resistance to safety measures, and lack of political action.
- Rural areas show resistance to masks and social distancing, while politicians refuse to mandate safety rules.