Well they certainly don’t need to advise the public of every case they test, I agree.
But, regarding the 20%. I can understand the author’s viewpoint. Here’s a few parts from it.
“ While it’s incredible that we have immediate access to COVID-19 updates, there’s one big problem with the way the media has been covering the outbreak. We have reporters, social media influencers and other public figures trying to reassure us that we’re probably going to be fine — well, most of us anyway. All of us except the elderly and immunocompromised.
“Don’t worry,” they say. “Wash your hands and carry on,” they advise. “You’re young, it’s not like you’ll die or anything! It’s just the elderly and people with compromised immune systems that will be affected!”
As if people in those groups don’t matter. People like me. I have primary immunodeficiency. Hi.
I won’t lie, COVID-19 concerns me, just as it concerns my neighbors and friends who have stronger immune systems. Luckily, the infection control procedures recommended to the general public — things like thorough and frequent hand washing, covering one’s mouth when sneezing and cleaning surfaces that are frequently touched — are standard operating procedure for a lot of people like me. I didn’t need to raid my local store for hand sanitizer and bleach wipes because I already have a cupboard full of that stuff. I’m doing my best to remain vigilant, keep my doctors’ appointments and avoid crowds. ....
.. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like a lot of news outlets are following this sound practice. They’re going on about how only “old folks’ homes” and “sick people” will be at risk. When did it become acceptable to comfort the public by reassuring them that “Hey, you’re not the one who might die”? Or to assume that it will all be cool because only “those people over there” will have issues? Aside from the fact that it’s actually not true — being healthy doesn’t grant anyone guaranteed immunity from potential complications — have they considered, even for a second, that those “old folks” and “sick people” are listening, reading or watching too, and don’t deserve to have their lives considered afterthoughts?
Instead of shrugging off more medically vulnerable populations, has it ever dawned on any of these pundits to offer some advice to help? You know, like telling people with robust immune systems to be especially careful because they could still pass COVID-19 to an immunocompromised person? Or insisting that public facilities be proactive about ensuring their restrooms are cleaned often and always stocked with soap and working faucets? How about advocating for more sick day coverage and fewer repercussions for workers who need to take time off to avoid spreading COVID-19 or other illnesses? Or reminding people to check on homebound neighbors and relatives?
The article and the media coverage need a bit more nuance. :-)
One area (just one, because my fingers are tired of typing) is that most people who get seriously ill won’t die. They will be absolutely miserable and feel like total garbage with severe pneumonia like symptoms. They will be isolated from friends and family for what will probably be the worst month of their life. But, they won’t die.
That will be folks (almost all adults) of all ages.
Good post.
I have many elderly relatives, and also younger ones who are immune-compromised. Like my little great-grandson, who is immune-compromised because of anti-rejection meds, due to a liver transplant.
The young, hale and healthy people should have more regard for the vulnerable ones.
so much selfishness...
nice article and spot on.
It appears that they are making it psychologically alright to let the old ones die off. Keep in mind they have been preparing them to accept that consequence for decades. Consider the contempt of the phrase...Ok Boomer...
I had a client call and cancel two trips the other night. She said she wasn’t worried she wasn’t in the affected age group...I reminded her I am. She tried to dissuade my concerns and explanations, I think she was ultimately embarrassed for saying what she did. Ending with platitudes of “you will be fine.”