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My reqs for Iowans on opening: Even though the state is open, that doesn't mean it's safe. Models still show that Iowa's statewide transmission is not declining; some models have R0>1 or very close to 1. #COVID19 deaths are increasing. Widespread testing is not available. 1/x
In addition, the state has no community personal protective equipment (PPE) plans. Three U Iowa infectious diseases physician-epidemiologists with >70 years combined experience wrote that we need PPE (face shields) to open safely. The state has no PPE plans. This is a flaw. 2/x
Here is the face shields community viewpoint written by @dan_diekema @mike_edmond and me, along with a visual abstract of the idea 3/x https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2765525
Restaurants: I don't think we have enough data to support the safety of eating indoors in restaurants. In fact, there is data to show it's not safe to eat indoors. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/26/7/20-0764_article 4/x
For now, I would continue to support local restaurants through delivery and carry out. If the restaurant provides masks or face shields for their employees (and they wear them), you could probably eat safely outdoors with 6ft distance. 5/x
Large religious gatherings: It's not safe in the majority of Iowa counties to gather indoors for church services for extended periods. Intergenerational mixing is deadly particularly if singing. The evidence is very clear. 6/x https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7163187/ https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6919e6.htm
Other businesses: Without widespread face shield use for personal protection and at minimum mandatory mask use by workers AND shoppers, it is not safe to shop indoors for the time being. My recommendations are as follows: 7/x
Reqs for shopping in big box stores, malls, small businesses:
1) Wear a face shield, it protects you and others. With a face shield, you are not dependent on others for your protection. If you have a face shield, you can shop 8/x
1) Wear a face shield, it protects you and others. With a face shield, you are not dependent on others for your protection. If you have a face shield, you can shop 8/x
2) Only support businesses that require face shields, masks or both for all their employees and all shoppers. If they don't care about their employees or your safety, you shouldn't shop there. No shield or mask/no shirt/no shoes/no service - easy 9/x
Outdoor activities remain the safest. If you want to gather outside with friends, I would still wear a mask or face shield and I would still maintain 6 feet distancing. But go on hikes or walks or sit outside and chat with neighbors. We will get through this. end
