Southeastern USA: COVID-19 Trends & Responses

Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay

Corona viruses are ancient, and have been with humanity for hundreds of thousands of years — most common colds are caused by this type of virus. COVID-19, the virus that is causing our current pandemic, however, is quite different, as it's only very recently made the leap from animals to humans. This means that we do not have the evolutionary resistance to it the way we do to influenza or a cold, which makes this disease exceptionally dangerous.

The entire world has found different ways to deal with the spread and treatment of the virus, but the most successful seem to be:

• Limiting social interaction, and staying 6 feet (1.83 m) or more apart when in social spaces
• Only going out for necessities, like medical treatment, gas and groceries
• Frequent, thorough hand washing

Each country and state, however, has responded quite differently to the threat of this new disease, and with varied results. We're going to look at how the United States is responding to this threat, and particularly how the southeastern states are preparing. 

Federal Response To COVID-19

The United States federal government has received criticism for their slow action, but the recommendations on the CDC website are in line with the World Health Organization. It's critically important to limit social interaction outside your home, avoid going to work if you can and wash hands frequently. Additionally, use approved disinfectants to clean surfaces that come into contact with people or items that might be contaminated.

The federal government has also closed land borders with Canada and limited European air travel for 30 days. These measures are designed to slow the rate of infection so hospitals aren't overburdened, but they also allow for more time to learn about the virus and ways to treat it.

North Carolina

North Carolina's response to the pandemic has been progressive, starting around the 14th of March with school closures. From there, they banned all gatherings of over 50 people, progressing into restaurant and work closures.

Testing in North Carolina is based on exposure risk and symptoms.

South Carolina

South Carolina has had social distancing, including school closures, in place since the 8th of March, nearly a full week before the federal government issued a national emergency. Their CDC website lists up-to-date cases, fatalities and negative tests based on county. While the state is not in lockdown, they are enacting shelter-in-place strategies, other than essential services.

Testing is done by failed rapid flu test and COVID-19 symptoms.

Tennessee

The response in Tennessee has been sluggish compared to the rest of the region. The governor only called for school closures by the close of business on the 20th of March, long after states like South and North Carolina. Social distancing has been suggested but not enforced, and employees for the state are working from home.

Testing is based on a tiered exposure and risk factor basis.

Georgia

Public gatherings are limited and schools were closed as of the 16th of March, and their website lists current cases, negative tests and places where you can get tested. Private and independent medical facilities are currently doing the bulk of the viral tests.

Alabama

Though Alabama had not recorded their first infections until later than some other states, their response has been slow. As of the 17th, public gatherings were prohibited, schools were closed and remote work enacted. They did, however, enact emergency powers on the 13th of March, giving the governor the power to expand on restrictions as the situations warranted.

Testing is limited to public health coordinated centers, and testing is available based on criteria similar to other states in the region.

Florida

Florida has the biggest cause for concern, due to it being a popular vacation spot and especially considering it being spring break for most colleges. The influx of students and travelers has caused Florida to have strict quarantine and testing procedures in place, though they haven't limited social gatherings. As of the 18th, the governor has not closed beaches, and businesses and schools are advised to use caution.

Testing information is entirely based from the CDC website; there's little to no information about testing facilities or protocol on the Florida department of health website.

Social distancing, frequent hand washing and closely monitoring any flu-like symptoms are the key to getting ahead of COVID-19 and preventing severe illness and widespread infection.