The Home Page Network

On today’s broadcast, Home Page Network Vice President Sara Vogt talks with Dr. Rutul Dalal, who is the Medical Director of Infectious diseases for UPMC Susquehanna Region on where we currently stand with COVID-19.

Most of our numbers are slowly declining as we continue in the GREEN PHASE. Overall the State of Pennsylvania is now doing much better compared to other states. Numbers in Pennsylvania’s Northern Tier are still holding and looking very good at this particular moment in time. This is the result of our residents doing their part to be safe by practicing social distancing and continuing to wear masks as needed and washing hands frequently.

The hope that warmer weather would help knock the virus down appears to be losing strength as the numbers from more temperate climates are analyzed. The latest studies show that COVID-19 can survive in temperatures near 120ºF.

Going forward into the summer months, Dr. Dalal believes that we should enjoy the outdoors responsibly. He encourages us not to let our guard down, but as we move into summer activities. Wearing masks when needed and practicing the 6-foot protocol is very helpful for keep COVID-19 in check. Remember that there will probably be people around you who are shedding the virus. So, use common sense and good judgment.

We may experience a second surge this Fall, so this is an excellent time to get outdoors and get your exercise in and enjoy life a little. Hopefully, we will not see a severe surge. At this point, we don’t know. We are currently witnessing a rise in places like Florida and other States who have relaxed protocols. Good hand hygiene continues to be very important in keeping COVID-19 in check.

Please take a few moments to watch today’s broadcast, fear not, enjoy your summer, and continue to be safe as we press on to victory over COVID-19.