Follow sensible plans

COVID-19 is currently the leading cause of death in the United States. Kane County should listen to scientists and comply with Gov. Pritzker's reasonable plan. The wave of illness is moving from the densely populated areas to the suburban and rural regions.

Coroner Rob Russell announced Monday, that 38 people died in Kane County in the previous seven-day period, including 17 over the weekend, a 50% increase. Even more concerning, testing at this point is not widespread. Neither PCR the test for active virus, nor the antibody test indicating past exposure, are widely available and certainly not on demand.

The on-site PCR virus test from Abbott Laboratories notoriously undercounts positives and provides from 15-48% false negatives depending on the type of swabs used. Even the White House has problems with the Abbott PCR test. Other COVID-19 PCR tests require shipment, testing off-site and can require several days turnaround time.

A serious issue is the amount of misinformation evident in citizen comments during the May 19, Kane County listening meeting. Contrary to what was said, the virus is not a simple cold. There is no antiviral treatment. The hydroxychloroquine recommended by President Trump increased the fatality rate in controlled studies. Serious illness is not confined to the elderly. People in their 20-30's have died, as have some children. The long-term effects of the virus may lead to people becoming permanently disabled.

There is also a misinformation about immunity. Masks do not compromise your immune system. In fact, if 80% of us wore masks we could halt transmission. Being home does not compromise immunity. Walks, bike rides and gardening are permitted with proper social distancing.

Unless we stay the course, we will suffer the consequences. We need to be patient.

Linda Robertson

St. Charles