Local hopeful COVID-19 news from Oregon:
(Rob Davis, The Oregonian). Oregon possibly acted on social distancing quickly enough to avoid becoming the next Italy – or New York – as long as Oregonians actually stay home.
New modeling released Thursday by the Oregon Health Authority shows the state’s hospital system appears capable of handling the coronavirus cases that are expected in the next month. But that’s just a planning estimate and assumes that nine out of 10 Oregonians stay home.
We are currently (March 28) at 479 confirmed cases and thirteen deaths. Seattle is just a three hour drive north from Portland. WA has 4,311 cases and 191 deaths. CA has about 5,400 cases and 116 deaths. All three states have stringent social distancing orders in place. (Dem governors.) With luck and good self-discipline, Oregon may dodge a bullet.
Still, health providers are freaking out about lack of PPE.On March 12, over 500 Oregon doctors signed a letter to Gov. Brown urging “steps concerning testing, homeless shelter, nursing homes, paid leave, evictions and other areas.” (Nick Budnick, Portland Tribune). It is likely this letter influenced the Governor in drafting her later orders addressing COVID. Indivisible Oregon leader Smitha Chadaga was one of the primary authors. The letter was updated to address a national perspective and sent to VP Pence over the signatures of at least five thousand(!) doctors.
Everyone I know is sheltering in place, with occasional trips out for groceries or meds. Lots of online meetings, and some socializing. I hear a few anecdotes of a**holes belligerently defying distancing rules in stores. Hard to judge from my isolation how well the rules are being followed overall.
Everyone, please stay home and stay healthy!