Southern Delaware an area of concern
Delaware Gov. John Carney said it is too early to determine whether a lower rate of hospitalizations is a long-term trend.
Carney was joined by Division of Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay, who pointed to apparent outbreaks of coronavirus throughout the state, including the Sussex County communities of Milford and Georgetown. This is in addition to the New Castle-Bear area in New Castle County.
Carney said added hospital capacity may be needed downstate, with the situation possibly easing in New Castle County.
The hospitalization number is closely watched in determining whether the coronavirus crisis is putting pressure on the state’s hospital system.
About 12 percent of those testing positive have been hospitalized, well below the worst-case scenario of 20 percent. Carney says the benchmark has been reset.
The state has not yet seen a decline in cases. Under federal guidelines, the state needs to see two weeks of lower hospitalizations and positive tests.
Carney says the state needs additional testing capacity before the state can get to the “starting line” in reducing restrictions.
“We don’t have it now,” he said of the ability to sharply increase testing.
Carney said the “new normal” will continue. It will include face masks, washing hands and not touching one’s face.
Unlike Maryland and Pennsylvania, Delaware does not require that employers and shoppers wear the masks.
Rattay said the Division of Public Health is working with employers in Sussex County on best practices.
Both Milford and Georgetown have poultry processing plants, although that industry was not mentioned by Rattay.
One poultry processing plant (Allen Harim) asked growers to “depopulate” some chicken houses, due to lower production, due to employee absences.
A Milford nursing home has reported 12 deaths, with the state listing eight from the Genesis site. Rattay said the discrepancy is due to Genesis using different criteria than the state.
Emergency Director A.J. Schall said the state has seen a disturbing trend of some Sussex Countians waiting too long before seeking treatment.
Schall also noted that the National Guard is active in coronavirus relief efforts that include the distribution of protective equipment and meals.
Other highlights:
- Carney confirmed that the state could face a $500 million to $1 billion budget gap.
- Carney said the executive branch, not the Legislature, has the power to declare a state of emergency.
- Rattay and Carney said no U.S. state has enough tests. to move to the reopening “starting line.” Rattay says all tests have their limitations.
- Carney says planned protests calling for businesses to reopen are not helpful, adding that he understands the anguish from people who have lost jobs as well as families who have lost loved ones to coronavirus. A couple of groups have been organizing protests via social media.
- Carney has heard good news stories and challenges regarding students learning from home. Challenges include online access and attention spans of students in the home setting.
