Good news & bad news

For those of you, who might think the title is the beginning of a joke, I will warn you,
that there is nothing funny about this blog. But then, this blog is much more significant than any joke.

Nonetheless, it seems that we all could stand to see a real 'light at the end of the tunnel' with regard to Covid-19. Unfortunately, there's very bad news connected to it. But, since there's been mostly bad news for a while, it's nice to get any good news.

OK. Here's the bad news first. The governor of New York reported today a record number of new deaths, over 700 since yesterday. Of course, that is terrible news,
especially for the families of the deceased. My condolences to all.

Now keep in mind, that deaths are the result of previous infections and there is a usually a lag period from when one gets infected to when one recovers, or dies.

Here's the good news. For several days in a row, the governor has also reported a drop in the number of positive test results. This is especially significant, as testing is more widely available.

Thus, at least for New York it is possible, that they are beginning to trend downward on the number of infections. Considering that New York has had the largest numbers and the density of the population in the NYC area, this latter result is terrific news. It seems to indicate, that social distancing is working to reduce infections. All hail Fauci !
It also indicates, that eventually, the number of deaths should trend down too.

Now, hopefully, the residents will not take this too gleefully and be too eager to return to work and cause a second wave of infections. Certainly, those that have recovered from the disease and not testing positive for the virus SHOULD go back to work.
They will not spread the disease, nor are they likely to get the disease. Indeed, if they give blood, their antibodies can be harvested and used to fight the disease for those who are infected and not recovering.

However, those who test positive, and those who have not been tested, should not yet return to situations where they could spread the disease.

The other thing I should mention is, that different areas have different timings of their infection curves. It is very possible for visitors or residents with the disease to start another round of infections upon those who have not yet been infected.
So, unless you have recovered from the disease and test negative for the virus, until an effective vaccine is available and until you have been previously innoculated with it, you should still practice social distancing & thoroughly wash your hands before touching your nose, mouth or eyes. .

But, at least in NY, the light at the end of the tunnel may be in the distance, but perhaps it is becoming visible.