Today@Willamette

Hopeful signs, stay the course

Don Thomson, Director of Bishop Wellness Center

You've likely heard about "flattening the curve" quite a bit in recent weeks. The curve references the total number of positive COVID cases, which will see an exponential spike without intervention. Such a spike will overwhelm our hospitals and healthcare providers leaving them unable to treat everyone in need. We can all help "flatten the curve" by implementing protective measures to slow the transmission of the virus, such as social distancing, wearing masks and hand washing. If we can do this, the curve’s peak will be lower and hospital systems will have the capacity to help people.

The Oregon Health Authority’s data is showing early signs that social distancing may be working to slow the spread of the virus in Oregon, but we must continue to be diligent in our efforts. We know that there are emotional, physical and financial consequences to the difficult choices we are collectively making. But, we all have a critical role to play, a part in slowing the spread of COVID-19. We will undoubtedly come out of this pandemic stronger and more connected as a community. In the meanwhile, trust that the sacrifices we are all making today really are saving lives.

Be well, Bearcats.