Florida has witnessed a significant surge in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, driven largely by the highly transmissible Delta variant. This spike has led to a dramatic increase in hospitalizations across the state, putting immense pressure on the healthcare system.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between August 1 and 9, an average of 54 children under the age of 18 were admitted to hospitals daily with COVID-19. This alarming trend highlights the virus’s impact on younger populations during the current wave.
Despite the escalating cases and overwhelmed hospitals, many residents in Miami continue to forgo wearing masks. A street survey in Miami revealed a general reluctance to adopt preventive measures, with individuals citing reasons ranging from personal freedom to skepticism about mask efficacy.
Dr. Carlos Torres Viera, a leading infectious disease specialist in Miami, expressed deep concern over the situation. “The resistance to mask-wearing is exacerbating the crisis,” he stated. “We are seeing more patients than ever before, and the hospitals are reaching capacity. It’s crucial for the community to understand the importance of masks in controlling the spread.”
The situation in Florida serves as a cautionary tale for regions worldwide, including Asia, where measures like mask-wearing have been pivotal in managing outbreaks. Public health experts emphasize the need for global vigilance and adherence to preventive strategies to combat the pandemic effectively.
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Floridians shun masks even as hospitals overloaded with COVID-19 cases
cgtn.com
