October has finally come to a close, and we are now approaching the season of Thanksgiving. As the weather grows colder and colder, it is important to be even more mindful of the COVID-19 virus and other seasonal illnesses like the flu. Last year, the number of COVID-19 cases increased exponentially worldwide during the winter months and we should expect a rise in cases within the next few months as well. However, one major difference from last year’s COVID influx is the administration of the vaccine and its ability to subdue the spread of the virus. Comparing COVID-19 cases both at a worldwide and county level will be beneficial in understanding the effects of the measures taken to fight the virus and the progress that we have made in doing so. Below is the COVID-19 data from the week of October 24. 

Worldwide: 

Number of new cases: 2,999,970

Percent change from last week: +2%

Number of deaths: 48,673

• Percent change from last week: +2%

Percent vaccinated: 

• At least 1 dose: 51.2%
• Fully: 40%

United States:

Number of new cases: 482,506

• Percent change from last week:-4%

Number of deaths: 7,947

• Percent change from last week: -18%

Percent vaccinated: 

• At least 1 dose: 66.7%
• Fully: 57.6%

Pennsylvania:

Number of new cases: 27,140

• Percent change in cases from last week: -8%

Number of deaths: 477

• Percent change in deaths from last week: 0%

Percent vaccinated: 

• At least 1 dose: 77.5%
• Fully: 60.4%

Montgomery County:

Number of new cases: 930

• Percent change from last week: -18.49%

Number of deaths: 14

• Percent change from last week: 55.56%

Percent vaccinated: 

• At least 1 dose: 71.7%
• Fully: 63%

This week’s data shows an overall decrease in national, state, and county infection rates but an increase in the global rate. Overall, the numbers are lower in most categories compared to the last update (See “Covid-19 Updates 10/5-10/12”), possibly due to the increase in vaccination rates across the scales of interest. It is interesting to note that worldwide, the number of cases and deaths both increased by 2% from last week while the US and Pennsylvania both saw decreases. Surprisingly, on the county level, there was a 18.49% decrease in new cases while at the same time, there was a 55.56% increase in the deaths. While the general decreases in cases are encouraging, we must continue following COVID precautions in an effort to fight this virus.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner and winter break fast approaching, many people are planning to travel and attend additional social events. It is highly encouraged to be cautious and heed regulations, even during times of celebration and excitement. It is also recommended to receive flu shots within the next few weeks to lower the chances of being exposed to both influenza and COVID-19. Always remember to wear masks around others and to wash your hands as often as possible. It is easy to forget that we are still in the midst of a devastating outbreak when the world around us is trying to return to normalcy, but it is crucial to be diligent in preventing unnecessary risks. Remember to keep warm, social distance, and stay safe!

Sources:

“CDC Covid Data Tracker.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#.

“Dashboard.” Department of Health, https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Vaccine/Pages/Dashboard.aspx.

Holder, Josh. “Tracking Coronavirus Vaccinations around the World.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 29 Jan. 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/world/covid-vaccinations-tracker.html.

“Weekly New Cases:” Worldometer, https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/weekly-trends/#weekly_table.

White House COVID-19 Team, Joint Coordination Cell. “Covid-19 State Profile Report – Pennsylvania.” HealthData.gov, 27 Jan. 2021, https://healthdata.gov/Community/COVID-19-State-Profile-Report-Pennsylvania/tkdp-r3p8.