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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMany of the decisions made about where we are permitted to\ngo and what we are permitted to do is predicated on the results of COVID data\ncollected in our communities. Although this\ninformation is readily available to us via multiple sources, do we really fully\ncomprehend it? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of the information gathered can be difficult to interpret\nwhile other statistics, when received out of context, can be misleading. Below are some insights to help you navigate\nthe constant stream of COVID data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The first thing to remember is that overall case counts don\u2019t\noften provide an accurate picture of the situation. While overall information\non the total number of positive cases in a given city or state can offer some\ninsight of the level of transmission, it\u2019s only valid if enough people are\nbeing tested. If we are testing more\npeople, we will obviously identify more COVID positive individuals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, the better statistic to look at is the positivity rate\nin a given area. This data measures the percentage of total tests conducted\nthat come back positive. According to the\nWorld Health Organization (WHO), an ideal positivity rate should be less than\n5%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another thing to point out is to not focus on a single day\u2019s\ndata. This is because some local and state jurisdictions don\u2019t report data on\nthe weekend and submit all weekend data collectively. This can create unrealistic peaks and valleys\nin daily reporting. Instead, experts suggest you review what\u2019s referred to as a\n\u201cSeven Day Rolling Average\u201d. This data takes each day\u2019s number and averages it\nwith the previous six days to provide a more accurate account of the prevalence\nof the virus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lastly, there is a great deal of information out there.\nWhile staying well-informed is very important, it is equally as important to\nonly use reliable sources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We hope these tips will help you better navigate COVID data and\nmake informed decisions to ensure your safety and that of your loved-ones.<\/p>\n
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The COVID pandemic has put a halt to or severely altered many aspects of our lives. Many of the decisions made about where we are permitted to go and what we are permitted to do is predicated on the results … Continue reading