What We’re Reading: 05/29/20

NULL

As May comes to a close COVID-19 is still very much in front of mind. Here are a few of the latest developments—

Black Americans dying of Covid-19 at three times the rate of white people

The oldest story in America continues to unfold, and the COVID-19 pandemic is anything but exempt from our legacy of racial inequity. Black Americans have died of the virus at almost three times the rate of white Americans. No, it is not just about co-morbidities. Data continues to show that black and brown people face distinct and alarming disadvantages in our healthcare system. Coronavirus testing and treatment is no different.  (From theguardian.com)

Tracking The Pandemic: How Quickly Is The Coronavirus Spreading State By State?

While numbers in the epicenter continue to drop, other parts of the country are now experiencing a rise in infections and deaths. And the pace is accelerating worldwide. The outbreak appears to be evolving as dozens of states, cities, and areas that loosened or ended lockdown restrictions see spikes. 

What’s great about this article is the interactivity of the graphs. To really understand how outbreaks compare state to state, it’s important to look at the daily counts as well as the rate of change. Pin this article for up-to-date data on your state, region, and the country at large.  (From npr.org)

‘We Loved Each Other’: Fauci Recalls Larry Kramer, Friend and Nemesis

A relationship ripe for reflection in such a time as this. With the passing of playwright Larry Kramer, arguably the most intentionally inflammatory AIDS activist, his dutiful counterpart Dr. Anthony Fauci remembers their deep friendship and the effectiveness of Kramer’s benevolent rage. Larry Kramer used their frenemy partnership to change perceptions, usher in federal responsibility, and change medical precedent. Powerful stuff.  (From nytimes.com)

Now for something entirely different, a short story written with relentless tenderness—

Queenie

by Alice Munro

A long-simmering delight of unending beauty. The story begins when Queenie elopes with a recently widowed much older neighbor, both shocking her family and opening up a new “adult” world to her step-sister Chrissy who comes to stay for the summer. Munro’s prose is both effortless and unyielding. Read this one slowly, savor its moments, and let the story breathe with you.  (From lrb.co.uk)

Also check out:


Subscribe to Healthpoints and never miss an update.