Isn’t it interesting, back in April and May, 2020, those of us closely watching the data stated that this virus would look much like the influenza pandemic of 1918. Look closely at the numbers of deaths in St Louis (who participated in the 1918 quarantine – red line) and Arizona, who has done much the same in our approach (in the 2nd graphic below).
The death count curves are nearly identical. Interestingly, the numbers of those that died St Louis are almost identical to Arizona’s graph below, directly from the Arizona Department of Health Website. We know that the rates of infection differ between the two viruses and a number of things including domicile proximity, health of the city or state, transportation methods, sanitary condition, etc. play a significant role in the infection rates. My point is not to compare the two viruses, but to point out that the effect of quarantine did exactly what we expected it to do.
We expected the resurgence of the virus. Let’s say that again. We expected it. However, the media and many health professionals that I interact with seem horrified that it occurred.
We predicted this pattern months ago.
I am surprised at the number of health professionals that are just beside themselves about this virus. I recognize that, in its most severe form, this virus can be deadly. And, so is the flu, RSV and other RNA viruses. Do these professionals not read history? Do they not read the actual scientific literature? Do they not see the patterns that diet and control of hyperinsulinemia have on this virus?
Instead, these medical professionals have remained quiet, and in some cases cheered, as our government over-reach and personal liberty infringement took place. We’ve lost our ability to travel, participate in group gatherings and church services. Quarantine, mask wearing and social distancing has essentially done nothing for our community in the last 3 months.
Our initial reasoning for quarantine was to take the peak off of hospitalizations. That was done. Yet continued suppression of personal liberties has done nothing for the overall health of our society. The second wave of infection was going to occur no matter what we did.
Instead, the media fear mongering, social distancing and force wearing of masks has lead to increased risk of suicide, overdose and drug addiction. Estimates are as high as 150,000 deaths due to the effects of quarantine and social distancing mandates. In fact, much of the anxiety and PTSD that is expected will not be seen until 4-6 month after the quarantine occurs.
According to a recent JAMA report, “It is possible that the 24/7 news coverage of these unprecedented events could serve as an additional stressor, especially for individuals with preexisting mental health problems.” Our routines have been completely upended and even things like wearing a mask or waiting in lines at the grocery store can make you feel tense.
Some common signs of pandemic-induced stress are:
- Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Worsening of mental health conditions
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
What we know from research after the SARS outbreak is that post-traumatic stress (PTSD) is possible, especially in front line healthcare workers. In one particular study, about 10 percent of the hospital employees had had high SARS-related PTSD symptoms post-outbreak. And about half of them still had symptoms three years later. Other studies have shown that when a person’s PTSD symptoms persist for more than 6 months after an event, they are very likely to continue to persist over the long term.
A significant part of the problem in both the lay public and among health care workers is confusion about actual risk of disease, what can be done to prevent/treat the disease, and how to access treatment. I see this confusion today in many physicians and nurses I interact with in my community.
If you are having symptoms of anxiety, stress or depression, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Knowledge is power. The more you know, the less fear and anxiety you will have.
Wear your mask if you want. Initially, when we didn’t know how invective this virus was, I was all for using any protection available. But, since the end of April, the data has changed my mind. Wearing a mask isn’t doing anyone any good.
Some cities and states have mandated mask wearing. I’m not telling you to break the law. I am saying that the mask mandate has done nothing to “slow the spread” as so many people have now bought into. Research demonstrates that homemade masks to little to stop the spread of viral infections and surgical mask that have been properly fitted and worn correctly decrease this risk of viral spread by only 2-5%. In the most recent review of the mask wearing literature, the authors stated, “The evidence is not sufficiently strong to support widespread use of face-masks as a protective measure against COVID-19. However, there is enough evidence to support the use of face-masks for short periods of time by particularly vulnerable individuals when in transient higher risk situations.”
What is effective is washing your hands regularly with soap and water, avoiding those who are actually sick or have fevers over 101 degrees, eating a healthy diet that prevents diabetes risk and getting adequate sleep. Those at high risk for infection can and should be vigilant about avoiding exposure.
