COVID-19 health & wellness life in alaska the whole & simple gospel

Covid-19, three months later

I figured it was time to quit adding to this post and just start a new one! This pandemic is marathon stuff, huh? I recently posted the following on Instagram, which prompted a few requests for resources:

Since moving to Alaska, we’ve all been tested for Covid-19 at least once. We’ve done so eagerly, and with joy, because mass testing and contact tracing is a proven method of slowing spread while moving the country forward. (PSA: you ain’t gotta get the nasopharyngeal swab anymore. There are gentler options now!)
We also wear masks in public, for two reasons. First, it’s another proven method of protection for ourselves and others. Second, it’s a quiet, simple, and public demonstration of our respect for our community. We’re paying attention, and we care.
I read a tweet awhile back, that said Americans think covid is over because we grew bored with it. The Kincaids are not bored. We love God and science and public health and the least of these from Matthews 25. This is kingdom work, and we hope to be doing it for the rest of our days.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CB1N8fmghob/

And now, for some (hopefully) helpful resources! Last update: June 24, 2020

EXPERTS I’M FOLLOWING:

In addition to numbers counts via the WHO, CDC, state websites, and my current employer (a hospital)’s daily reports and guidelines… the only regular resource I follow for new information is Emory University’s incredibly smart and humorous scientist Laurel Bristow (@kinggutterbaby). She does a great job of breaking down press releases and scientific papers in clear and practical ways, and she also highlights the work of other experts within her field.

ON PERSONAL RESEARCH:

I’ve used my computer for nothing but evidence-based research for the last four years, thanks to grad school. So glad to be done! But also, I’m grateful for the foundational tools it gave me. I’ll use those forever, and I’m happy to share them here.

First, consider the source. Personal accounts like YouTube videos, interviews, and expert opinions are fine to reference. However, they are not considered quality research. Check out this page to learn about different levels of evidence. It includes graphics and definitions, and I still refer to this concept regularly when measuring a source I’ve found. Spoiler alert: we don’t have high levels of evidence yet for a novel virus like Covid-19. Another spoiler alert: expert opinions are considered the lowest level quality of evidence. YouTube videos and Facebook accounts don’t even make the cut.

Second, try using specific terms when performing a search. I use phrases like evidence-based or evidence for, scholarly article, and peer-reviewed in addition to whatever I’m typing into the search bar.

Third, evaluate the source’s crew. Generally, experts will be accepted by other experts. This is what it means when an article has been peer-reviewed. The article was de-identified and sent to a slew of people to review and critique, before it was published. Additionally, people who consider themselves to be experts in a field should not be lone wolves. Do they have privileges at a hospital? Are they on staff at a teaching institution? Who claims them as their own? This applies to every industry environment from finance to ministry, but we’re talking about medical science right now. It’s easy to get swept up in a smart person’s story, but check out who else has bought in or rejected their expertise before you hitch your cart to it.

And now, for some articles from real experts! Last update: June 29, 2020

ON COVID-19 HERD IMMUNITY:

Mayo Clinic – general background and definitions

Possibly a lower percentage needed to achieve, but we still aren’t sure about current infection leading to immunity

Argument against herd immunity as a solution + helpful graphics

ON MASS TESTING AND CONTACT TRACING:

An opinion (but quite reasonable/hopeful) piece on colleges reopening safely

It’s not just increased testing that is causing a spike in cases

On the importance of mass testing specifically in the context of Covid-19, since such a large number of cases are asymptomatic

Mathematical modelling study (in the United Kingdom) comparing mass testing, tracing, and isolating to measure transmission reduction

How Massachusetts did it and how they’re doing since (graphics included)

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control explains their recommendations with evidence from China and LOTS of cited sources