Happy Sunday everyone. How’s everyone’s summer going?… I know it’s most likely different, but it is still summer and we must admit that we are pretty blessed to call this sandbar (and surrounding area) home. If we must live through 2020 let’s be thankful that we get to live here.
As one of your healthcare providers I must admit one of my biggest frustrations concerning the COVID 19 pandemic is the amount of misinformation that is distributed by so many sources (both intentionally or not). Unfortunately, because this is a novel (new) virus we are all “driving the car while we are still building it.” The amount of scientific study and the speed by which these findings are being interpreted and then released (sometimes prematurely or with suspect motives) adds to the confusion and distrust. I don’t have a simple answer to provide. I can only emphasize the need to find reliable sources and to listen to trusted healthcare experts… and yet even this is not 100% foolproof.
As an example, a recent article in a local paper had a column concerning COVID 19 and explained how the overall death rate in Ocean County is lower this year (with the pandemic) when compared to 2019. The source of the information for this article was provided by a local doctor who also happens to be a local politician. An “expert” by my personal definition… someone I would tell a patient to listen to. I trust their statistics and agree that Ocean County has flattened the curve. We have been in “good shape” health wise for a few months. But this expert concludes and this article assumes and implies that since deaths are down in 2020 compared to 2019 that all is safe locally and that restrictions can and should be relaxed. This is an example of where facts and opinions collide and the resulting policy decisions could have dangerous consequences. There are many reasons that could explain why annual deaths are down this year… starting with the fact that lifestyles have changed and a large segment of the population is staying home (or decreased their normal activities)… maybe because the vulnerable people are less likely to be out and about means maybe there are less falls or home accidents… which maybe means less deaths. Or maybe less people are on the road (except in the LBI bubble)… which means less motor vehicle accidents… which might contribute to less deaths. Or maybe because people have simplified their lives during the pandemic means they have lower blood pressure, less heart attacks, or less strokes… I could continue but I think you get it.
My point is not to question another healthcare provider or disagree with the recorded data.The point is that this new reality is difficult for all of us… even the “experts.” So, remain vigilant and remain educated. Engage your brain but stay in your lane. Trust that we will get through this as we have throughout our history. We have always been a collection of unique individuals who are at our best when we have remained respectfully United.
Yours in Health,
Dr. Bott
(PS. please continue to wear your mask and cover both your mouth and nose)