CEN Advisory: The Hidden Deaths of COVID

Current news reports cite 320,000 Covid deaths  during 2020. Unfortunately, it is likely more are on the way in the last week of the year. Many will be feeling profound loss as this a time for Christians to respond with Hope.

In context the United States is on track for 3.22 million deaths in the United States, the first time the death toll has exceeded 3 million. The total US deaths are 400,000 more than experienced in 2019,  and a 15% increase in total deaths. A recent study indicated 67% of increased deaths were related to Covid.

Yet, we need to keep in mind the other 33% increase is attributed to other factors. Regardless of the cause of death, more will be experiencing profound loss and grief. What can we do when so many are facing loss and need the Hope that only Jesus brings in the midst of such great suffering? Find out how you can pray, care and share Christ in these uncertain times. 

One reason for the high levels are  increased deaths from pneumonia, heart disease and cancer.  One key factor is likely the 42% reduction in emergency room visits during peak times of the pandemic. Individuals are understandably reluctant to walk or be carried into an emergency room because of the substantial fear of picking up Covid. When an individual experiences chest pains or other heart attack symptoms many think twice or even a third time before submitting to the hospital. A delay in treating a heart attack may be fatal.  Additionally, many cancer screenings are down 50-80% , the lack of screenings may already have missed aggressive cancers resulting in death, but more likely result in a ticking time bomb that will take many to an earlier grave than necessary.

The CDC reports drug overdose deaths are at a record high, likely a result of depression over lockdowns and more individuals taking drugs all alone without having a buddy who could call 911 in an emergency. And, because of the pandemic, face-to-face treatment and counseling has been reduced.

And, we need to lend a hand to our friends and family who may be undergoing medical difficulties. When we have a family member who is short of breath, experiencing chest pains and sharp pains down the left arm it is not a time to tell them to sit back and take an aspirin. We need to insist they go to the emergency room, now. In situations where you are in doubt, many insurance plans, doctors’ offices and hospital facilities offer telephone triage appointments where a specialist can direct you over the phone to either choose Plan A, head to the emergency room now,  Plan B, make arrangements to be seen promptly by a physician or  Plan C, determine your situation does not require urgent care.

King Solomon wrote, A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” (Proverbs 27:12 NLT)

As a ReadyChristian we need to triage and encourage, and at times insist, those who are ill seek appropriate treatment, be it emergency room or for other important medical screenings.