Originally Posted by
WillBrink
S. Korea. For those following the science, nothing new per se, but interesting to get the S Korean med POV.
Why have they had so few cases and deaths? Here's their head Covid expert discussing the topic, and it's well worth the watch. That people may re catch it is scary to be sure. He does not seem to put much stock the airborne route it appears, and the 6' rule applies well, so really a concern where there's people in enclosed spaces too dang close to each other, but not outdoors.
Note in the US, masks are a big debate, this doc says they're absolutely of value (min 16) and he's giving the real reasons why the US, WHO, etc does not recommend them: fear of hording masks making them scarce for medical professionals. That's a legit concern, but telling people masks don't work only makes them lose faith in other recs...
Very telling, doc thinks a key reason S Korea has much fewer cases of this virus is due to the fact most Koreans where masks.
Note, they actually learned something from the last few viral outbreaks and actually (wait for it!) were pro active about how to be prepared for the next outbreak. What a crazy idea no?! That's sarcasm all. There's reasons the US may not be able to replicate the S Koreans being different countries in size, demographics, culture, etc, , but the US et al should probably view the S Korean approach as the model to aim for as best we can. Not sure that self quarantine tracking app would go over too well in the US however, we 'Muricans are very sensitive about that type of thing. According to the doc, China is controlling it well but many, yours truly included, would prefer to take our chances with Covid 19 and dangerous Liberty over being "saved" by draconian approaches employed by that, or any other, communist government. Doc refers to it as a "cultural difference" but ya, no. That's a "culture" you can have.
Best case? If the world actually works together, July/Aug we may have this under solid control, if we don't, it will be back around typical flu season and be added to the other viruses we have to deal with, unless a vaccine is developed. Remember, only about 50% of people in the US get their flu shot cuz they're watching too much Infowars and other crap vs using their brains and such. Even if one is developed, will be used for those at high risk for a long time.
Bookmarks