Dr. Fauci Notes COVID-19 Progress But Warns About More Outbreaks
The United States is finally seeing the first major decline in COVID-19 outbreak statistics after over three months. There has been a decrease of at least 30% of hospital admissions for coronavirus as well as the new cases reported, on average.
Dr. Fauci addressed the American public noting that the whole country is improving its numbers against a new surge. However, he also provided a firm warning that more outbreaks can occur and we may see another wave of cases, thus we should not let our guard down.
Read More »Over 70 Million American Have Not Been Vaccinated
When on an interview with “This Week” on ABC, Dr. Anthony Fauci said: “We certainly are turning the corner on this particular surge.” As the country’s expert on infectious diseases, Dr. Fauci explained that over the past 20 months, we continue to see outbreaks rise and then fall, and rise again.
He went on to emphasize the importance of the vaccine for the outbreaks to stay down and not rise again. Dr. Fauci believes that the risk comes from the 70 million people in the U.S. who although eligible for a vaccine, have not yet received it.
Once a significant number of more people are vaccinated, Dr. Fauci believes, the country will see steady progress in the decreasing numbers of COVID-19 cases. It is something he says that makes him very hopeful because it is in our hands to make it happen.
Deaths From COVID-19 Have Reached 700,000
This week there was a grim report by Johns Hopkins University, stating that the total deaths so far from COVID-19 are at approximately 700,000 nationwide. It is a stunning number despite the good news of new cases now plummeting.
Fauci said: “This is the most formidable virus,” referring to the almost one million deaths it has claimed. He went on to focus again on the eligible people in the United States that not yet been vaccinated and urges them to do so as soon as possible.
“There were situations where we could have done better, and we can do better, and I think we’re living through that right now,” Dr. Fauci mentioned as he recalls the global efforts that have taken place since the start of COVID-19.
He believes that many deaths could have been avoided. He said: “Most of the deaths could be avoidable if we get people vaccinated.” Many states throughout the nation are doing their part to help increase vaccinations.
California to Enforce Vaccine Mandate For State Students
One example of a leading state is the efforts by Governor Gavin Newsom in California. He announced a mandatory vaccine for state-wide students who are eligible, without providing them the option to test negative instead. It makes California the first state in the nation to mandate the COVID-19 vaccination for students.
The new mandate in California can be effective as soon as this school year. It is for students 12 years of age and older who desire to receive in-person academic instruction.
California state officials feel that the mandate will prevent school closures and will contribute to a decrease in outbreaks. They hope that other states will follow their lead.
In addition to students, California will require all public school workers to also get vaccinated. Negative COVID-19 will no longer be valid for teachers and staff as it has been in recent months.
Some of the public was concerned over this mandate, but Dr. Fauci mentions that these requirements have been around for a long time. Fauci reminded the public that he has agreed with these types of mandates for years, and still does.
He reminded everyone that for decades, it has been the norm that school children be vaccinated for diseases such as rubella, measles, mumps, and others. A puzzling look overcame him as he tried to understand such outrage from the COVID-19 mandate.
New Antiviral Medication Shows Promise
The Biden administration is set on continuing to increase the number of vaccines administered to eligible people. In the meantime, new clinical research is providing another way to combat the effects of COVID-19 showing promising data that provides some relief for those facing the virus.
Dr. Fauci also noted the new antiviral medication produced by pharmaceutical giant Merck. The drug’s clinical trials demonstrated it can decrease the probability for death or hospital admission by 50% in people who test positive for coronavirus.
Merck reported that the drug, molnupiravir, had very good results during an international trial. The drug decreased hospitalization among people that are at high risk and are diagnosed with a mild to moderate form of COVID-19.
The pharmaceutical manufacturer is seeking regulatory approval, which will allow the people of the United States access to its first pill that fights COVID-19. The medical community has been puzzled by the virus being unpredictable as mild to moderate cases turn into life-threatening scenarios.
Until now there has not been a way to scientifically explain how some cases take a turn for the worst while some patients hardly feel any symptoms. The new pill is shining some light on this dilemma. Thus far, it seems like a simple way to prevent major hospitalizations and deaths from those that contract COVID-19, especially among those who belong to a high-risk category such as the elderly and the immunosuppressed.
Dr. Fauci Emphasizes the Importance of the Vaccine
Fauci explained and emphasized that this new antiviral drug is NOT an alternative to the vaccine. It is only a supplementation for those who still contract the virus despite receiving the vaccine.
He mentioned the impressive results this new medication showed during the current clinical trials stating “it’s a big deal.” Dr. Fauci continues to address the nation providing updates on new COVID-19 outcomes and motivating eligible Americans to receive the vaccine as soon as possible. Despite social unrest about the vaccine, for now, we are seeing a decline in the virus and are looking forward to staying tuned for new developments.
