The dissolution of the task force and the actual declaration of victory over a virus that is still spreading in the country raises questions about the administration’s priorities. Less than six months after election day, President Donald Trump appears to be shifting the cogs from pandemic management to a message of revival and a tone for a second term, Stephen Collinson writes.
The news comes in the wake of an internal report leaked by the White House which predicts that daily deaths will rise to 3,000 by June and a large complaint from an informant by a director of the ousted vaccine claiming that the first warnings about the virus were greeted with “indifference which then developed into hostility” by the leaders of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Wear safety glasses, but no mask, Trump visited a factory that made medical masks in Arizona – a battlefield state in the 2020 presidential election – to support the reopening of the economy. Addressing the media, the President seems to admit that he has been reconciled to the deaths that epidemiologists claim will result from a premature return to normal life.
“I’m not saying that nothing is perfect, and yes, will some people be affected? Yes. Will some people be seriously affected? Yes,” said Trump. “But we must open our country, and we must open it soon”.
You asked. We have replied
Q: How will Covid-19 change schools?
A: As new studies clearly show that children can transmit the virus, epidemiologists are considering whether schools should remain closed until a vaccine is available. If they reopen, it is clear the classrooms will have to look very different to protect children. This could mean that remote learning will remain long after the crisis. Before the bell rings this fall, schools are strategizing ways to reduce transmission – from staggering start times to the introduction of temperature controls, limiting visitors on campus and wearing masks.
Submit your questions here. Are you a healthcare professional who fights Covid-19? Send us a message on WhatsApp about the challenges you are facing: +1 347-322-0415.
WHAT IS IMPORTANT TODAY
Corporate America is in crisis
With its parks closed, movies out of theaters and cruise ships anchored, Disney’s profits plummeted 91%. GE is permanently cutting a quarter of its global workforce and J. Crew has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The pandemic is bringing many businesses to their knees, with companies facing massive layoffs, making record losses and, in some cases, asking for bankruptcy. Zachary B. Wolf take a look at what comes next.
The virus has been circulating in people since late 2019
A new genetic analysis of the virus which causes Covid-19 shows that it has been circulating in people since late last year and must have spread very quickly since the first infection. The revelation seems to rule out some doctors’ hopes that the virus has been circulating for many months, increasing immunity in some populations.
But there is some good news. British researchers also found no evidence that the virus is becoming more easily transmitted or that it is more likely to cause serious disease: “The virus is changing, but that in itself does not mean that it is getting worse.”
The United States is not prepared to protect citizens, says an expert
With over half of the states starting to reopen, the former interim director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the United States has not done enough to protect citizens from coronavirus. And, without a check on the key factors necessary to bring the virus to the heel – from tests to traces – it is impossible to estimate the deadly impact of the premature restart of the economy.
“We’re saying, if you have money and you’re white, you can do well here,” said Dr. Richard Besser at CNN. “If you are not, good luck to you.”
Bessers’ comments come in the wake of a new study that has found out coronavirus is killing African Americans at higher rates. Black Americans represent 13.4% of the American population, but counties with higher black populations account for more than half of all Covid-19 cases and nearly 60% of deaths, the study found. Researchers blame disparities, including access to health care.
Highest UK deaths in Europe
The UK has suffered more confirmed deaths from coronavirus than any other country in Europe – nearly 30,000 – a milestone that accumulates further examination of the response to the pandemic of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
And, yesterday, a leading scientist who advised the UK government on his response to the coronavirus he resigned after the Telegraph newspaper reported breaking the blocking rules he helped define by allowing his reported lover to visit his home.
Pandemic restores EU-China relations
2020 has been scheduled to be a crucial year for the European Union and China. But China’s response to Covid-19 – from draconian repressions to allegations of the spread of disinformation – has left a bitter taste in European officials. The crisis also reminded him a closer commitment with China involves risks.
ABOUT OUR RADAR
- Every night, just after sunset, Ruth Medjber chat with her neighbors in Dublin, Ireland, and take a portrait of them at the window for a photographic project called Grá sa Bhaile, Irish for “Love at Home”.
- Thousands of studentswearing masks, he returned to school today in Wuhan, the original epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic.
- Israel has developed futuristic mobile test booths with integrated gloves, which allow individuals to be buffered without risking exposure to the virus.
- New guidelines for social distancing are provoking public backlash in Japan. Tips include mandatory face masks and alfresco dining in restaurants.
- A retired farmer who sent an N-95 mask to the Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo, asking him to pass it on to a doctor or nurse who needed it, he received an honorary degree.
- For the first time in its history, The entire New York City subway system it was closed for disinfection. Deep cleanings will now be performed on a nightly basis, from 1:00 to 5:00.
- Japanese artist Takashi Murakami and the streetwear brand Supreme joined together to raise over a million dollars, with 100% of the proceeds destined to support the homeless during the pandemic.
- Daniel Radcliffe and his co-stars of the magical world take turns reading the chapters of the beloved “Harry Potter” novels, as part of J.K. Rowling’s new online reading hub and it’s very relaxing.
TOP TIP
Whether it’s an alternative mode of transportation, a daily dose of exercise or meditation through movement, walking is a salvation for our common sense during these difficult times. And experts say they’re fine, as long as you stay six feet away. Long walks are not only good for the body, but also for the mind. If you feel stressed, get up and walk – even if it’s just around your house – and focus on your breathing. Are you looking for other tips on how to do things step by step? Check out these five ways to improve your walk.
TODAY’S PODCAST
“Everything that is accessible in a person visit is accessible in a telemedicine visit.” – Dr. Gregory Esper, director of telemedicine at Emory University
What should you do if you need a doctor right now? For some, the answer lies in telemedicine. CNN’s chief medical correspondent, dr. Sanjay Gupta, speak to dr. Gregory Esper of how technology is changing the way healthcare is delivered. Listen now.
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