Many people may be wondering what a second wave of COVID-19 is and what it may look like. Think of the first wave of COVID-19 as the number of coronavirus infections climbing and then falling. The first wave doesn’t appear to have ended in the U.S, since the virus has still not been brought under control, and neither has the cases of coronavirus infection declined substantially. It’s a bumpy situation across the U.S with some states experiencing a decline in new infections, while others are witnessing spikes. Should you be preparing for a second wave of COVID-19? The experts think so.
Is a Second Wave of COVID-19 Expected?
The U.S has been experiencing a bumpy ride in how it’s been impacted the COVID-19 pandemic, with states across the country seeing spikes and declines at one point or another. One thing is certain and it’s that COVID-19 is still here and continuing to do damage. The U.S has yet to see an end to the first wave of COVID-19, with an increase and not a substantial decrease in the number of cases of coronavirus infections currently. This surge and the reasons behind them gives the experts cause for concern. A vaccine is still not developed and people are left to rely on adherence to precautionary measures to keep from catching COVID-19, but the data shows that people are not adhering to the measures. Furthermore, the relaxation of restrictions without proper policies in place to support contact tracing, for example, makes the threat of a second wave seem more convincing. A second wave of COVID-19 could possibly hit in the near future if greater emphasis is not placed on the need to control the spread of COVID-19.
Not a Reduction, But Spike in COVID-19 Cases
The Trump administration unveiled guidelines for reopening the country back in April, and it included a 14-day decline of confirmed COVID-19 cases or a decline of positive tests as a percent of total tests within that period. Many states were eager to get back to business but didn’t meet the established federal guidelines. When Florida, for example, began the first phase of reopening, it failed to meet a two-week decline in cases, and the state experienced an increase in cases per day a week before reopening. This failure to follow the federal guidelines for reopening has led to a surge in the number of coronavirus cases in Florida and other states.
Furthermore, people have become increasingly neglectful in wearing their masks and maintaining social distancing, which increases the risk of transmission, resulting in a spike in the number of new cases of coronavirus infection.
How to Prepare For a Second Wave of COVID-19
It’s imperative that healthcare workers are equipped with adequate resources, such as PPE to respond to a second wave of COVID-19. They should have enough equipment and supplies in stock, and beef up, if possible, continued preventative policies that are intended to keep patients and staff safe. What can you do to prepare? Some quick tips include:
- Continue to adhere to COVID-19 preventative measures, including social distancing, regular hand-washing and wearing your face covering
- Know how to contact local health authorities and stay abreast of COVID-19 development, like a spike in coronavirus infections
- Stock your household with two weeks’ supply of food, prescription medication, and other necessary supplies.
- Ensure that children in the household are up-to-date on their vaccines, and everyone should get the flu shot in time for the flu season.
Whether or nor a second wave of COVID-19 is near, continue taking all the necessary precautions to keep safe. Visit one of FirstCall Medical Center’s convenient locations for COVID-19 diagnostic and/or antibody testing, as well as telemedicine screenings that are, quick, safe, and reliant. We are here for your healthcare needs and our team of skilled healthcare professionals have you covered.