The rate of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations will stay at manageable levels into May if Oregonians maintain social distancing.
That assessment comes from the Oregon Health Authority, which estimates “aggressive” measures have already prevented 18,000 cases of COVID-19, as well as 500 hospitalizations.
OHA officials warn that hospitals and the health care system could be overwhelmed in late April if residents fail to maintain pandemic protocols.
The latest model - prepared by the Institute for Disease Modeling in Washington, anb based on the latest infection, hospitalization and death data - shows the number of new infections exceeding 60,000 by May 18th if social distancing isn’t practiced.
In a release, OHA State Health Director Dr. Dean Sidelinger acknowledges the “serious economic impacts” the pandemic has taken so far. But he adds that Oregonians are saving lives by staying home.
As of Saturday (4/11/20), the OHA reports there are 1,447 positive cases of COVID-19 in Oregon. But researchers say the latest data predicts there are 7,000 cases of active infection currently in the state.
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