Read on Twitter
I know people have some strong opinions about the second COVID wave
One thing we know for sure: numbers are way up
There has been a 250% increase in COVID hospitalizations in the last 3 weeks in Ontario 1/x
One thing we know for sure: numbers are way up
There has been a 250% increase in COVID hospitalizations in the last 3 weeks in Ontario 1/x
At this point, there is no data that definitely proves exactly what leads to increased community transmission. Therefore, there is no data that definitively proves the best way to manage the second wave.
But we still need to make decisions. 2/x
But we still need to make decisions. 2/x
Tracking the outbreaks in the city of Toronto during a single week at the end of September, 45% of outbreaks were traced to restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. It may upset some people, but that is clearly to place to start.
https://www.toronto.ca/news/medical-officer-of-health-letter-need-for-enhanced-public-health-measures/ 3/x
https://www.toronto.ca/news/medical-officer-of-health-letter-need-for-enhanced-public-health-measures/ 3/x
Similarly, this case control study from the United States found that visiting locations with on-site eating and drinking was the only major difference in exposures between those with COVID and controls https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/pdfs/mm6936a5-H.pdf 4/x
Indoor spaces where it is difficult or impossible to wear masks seem to be a problem. Is the evidence perfect? No. Does it make sense? Absolutely. 5/x
Ultimately, the government needs to close these establishments down in areas with high rates of community transmission of COVID. I don't know for how long. I don't know if that alone is enough. But the best data says that is probably the best way forward. 6/x
In the mean time, if you live in one of these areas, I would go back to how you were treating this in the spring. Work from home if possible. Avoid crowded indoor spaces as much as possible, especially if masks can't be worn. Wear a mask when indoors or in close contact. 7/x
Be social. Talk to your family and friends. Have fun. Just be smart about who you spend time with in an indoors setting. 8/x
I know this feels like an eternity. I know many people have been hit unfairly. We need to support those hurt the most by this - but the way to do it is to keep our communities safe, not to leave bars and restaurants open while we keep our heads in the sand.
