Has CU Boulder Eradicated COVID-19?
For many CU students and faculty, February 15 was a special Monday. It marked the return of a hybrid learning format, with numerous classes switching to on-campus and in-person interaction. This is a large step towards normalcy for CU Boulder, and it’s evident; more people can be seen on campus, dining halls are reopening, and more events are coming to fruition! While I think it’s important that we enjoy these freedoms–freedoms that we went so long without–I must also emphasize safety. COVID-19 is still around and is just as dangerous as before. Therefore, this post is intended to 1) summarize the COVID-19 statistics in our local area, 2) provide an update on the severity of the situation, and 3) reiterate preventative measures. I wish for everyone to venture out and to have fun again, all while being smart about it!
How prevalent is COVID-19 right now?
You’ll be glad to hear that coronavirus cases in Boulder County have been lessening. According to The New York Times, in February we have been averaging 1,500 new cases per week. This is down from an average of 2,000 cases in January and 3,000 cases in December. In this past week alone, our average cases per week decreased from 1,329 cases to 1,148 cases. Now this doesn’t really sound like a significant decrease because…it isn’t. Getting rid of COVID-19 is a gradual process that takes time, and it will likely be around for a while longer. But don’t be discouraged; we are making a difference. In comparison to Boulder County’s two worst months–November (~5,000 cases per week) and December (~3,000 cases)–February is significantly better. For as long as we exercise caution in our daily lives, we will be progressing towards a better and brighter future.
For more information concerning COVID-19 in Boulder County, including graphs and charts, click here.
Are COVID-19 vaccinations making a difference?
Yes! COVID-19 vaccinations are already making a big difference. Since the start of 2021, the number of doses administered in Boulder County has been increasing exponentially. For instance, on January 11, there were 1,184 first-round doses administered and only 268 second-round doses. On February 11, there were 1,732 first-round doses administered and 1,053 second-round doses. This upward trend is fantastic because, as you know, the more vaccinations that Boulder County gets translates to lower contagion rates. Also, the effectiveness of the base vaccine is holding up, however, there are some other COVID strains that may prove resistant. If the opportunity arises, it is worth it to get vaccinated. If, for whatever reason, you cannot get vaccinated, then just be careful. Wear masks, maintain social distancing, wash your hands, etc.
For more information about Boulder County’s vaccination rates, click here.
Meet with Dr. Buchwald!
If you are looking to learn more about COVID-19, or are eager to ask questions, consider attending Professor Rob Buchwald’s event: COVID-19; Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know. It will take place on February 26 at 6:30pm, via the Zoom link: https://cuboulder.zoom.us/my/buchwald. We’d love to see you there!
In the meantime, stay safe, smart, and healthy this semester. You’re doing great!