In this special episode, Richard and Jim have an extended conversation around six solutions to help us manage the pandemic more successfully, and improve responses to future public health emergencies.
1. Have a more realistic view of the virus. This includes understanding that the virus won't go away anytime soon. Clear, honest communication from the media and government health officials will help.
2. Restoring Trust. Greater transparency by public health officials and honesty about what is not known are two ways to improve understanding and trust.
3. Improve access to care and medical literacy.
4. Focus on the severe cost of the pandemic to children.
5. Make it Harder for People to be Unvaccinated.
Over 95% of new COVID-related hospital cases are among unvaccinated Americans.
6. COVID will probably increase life expectancy: The virus has led to advances in mRNA vaccines and viral medicine. The pandemic will speed up and intensify research into other life-threatening illnesses.
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