I was referring to the isolation units that are currently being used for confirmed cases here in the US.
Those units have been built specifically for that purpose and should be full proof as long as proper protocols are followed. But due to the fact that those units are very limited, we’ll have to find alternative measures.
As quickly as Hubei was overwhelmed, and given all of the knowns and unknowns about this virus, my point is that I don’t believe that caring for infected patients should take place in the same facility with non infected patients UNLESS the facility was built for that specific purpose. For the sake of containment, if we see a sudden outbreak of substantial size, we should consider turning an existing hospital into a quarantine treatment facility.
I know that’s not feasible with communities that have only one hospital, but there are several cities in the US that have multiple hospitals in close proximity.
If it blows up here like it has in China, then there will come a time that containment won’t be realistic. But until that time occurs, I think this would be the best route to go on an interim basis. It would allow for the best care for both infected and non infected patients and would drastically reduce the chance for cross contamination.
I hope that all makes sense...
Specialized isolation units would be the best case scenario, but realistically not feasible. If global containment fails (and it looks like we may be heading that way), then large scale containment/treatment centers may end up being a new “norm” in the near future. If it can’t be contained, then the next best option is to find creative ways to limit the impact as best we can.
I know the main topic of conversation in the media and on this thread has been in regards to containment, but I’m starting to wonder what our world is going to look like if the situation in Wuhan gets replicated on a global scale. Working remotely and self isolation won’t be long term options for the mass majority. IMOO, COVID-19 has the potential to completely change the world as we know it.
Let’s hope this virus either burns itself out in relatively short order, or that scientists can create an effective vaccine very quickly!
If not, then we may have to learn to accept it as a way of life as we do with the flu and the common cold. The only other option would be to promote social distancing. Think of the impact that would have.... schools, colleges, sporting events, restaurants, manufacturing facilities, all forms of public transportation, etc,...
