Letter to the Editor

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Letter to the Editor

Tue, 11/24/2020 - 13:37
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In a recent letter to the editor, the writer cited some statistics that had been received from Oklahoma State University that indicated an average of 3.66 deaths per day in Oklahoma from the COVID virus. I’m not sure how recently those statistics were obtained. By using current information available from news reports easily found in the Tulsa World and other news sources, the current average (as of 11-21-2020) is now 6.3 deaths per day since the first death in Oklahoma was reported on March 18.

Though neither figure seems to be high compared to other causes of death, that does not make the deaths any less tragic. What the writer doesn’t address is the skyrocketing rates in Oklahoma, not only of deaths, but also that of numbers of cases reported and the number of hospital admissions. Nor does he address the long term physical effects and suffering of so many that have had the virus but recovered.

The writer also does not address a very simple way to help reduce the soaring numbers in our state. Wearing masks is a very easy way to help make things safer for all. Though it has become a highly politicalized issue, the preponderance of evidence and opinion from the scientific and medical communities is that masks do indeed make a difference. It is a concern of many that even this seemingly low number could be reduced by consistent wearing of a mask.

Many of our elected leadership say that Oklahoma’s citizens are responsible and it should be their choice as to whether or not they wear a mask. My observation, as I am out in the community on a limited basis and see pictures in the various sources of state news, is that there are a large number of people who are NOT being responsible. That includes pictures showing large numbers of our elected officials not wearing masks during swearing in ceremonies at the state capital building.

I don’t anticipate that our state and local leaders will mandate the wearing of masks but I strongly encourage YOU to wear a mask. The life that you might save could be your own or that of a loved one.

Royce Caldron Ponca City OK