Coronavirus Cases on the Rise in New Jersey
In recent months, the number of COVID-19 cases has decreased dramatically in comparison to when the virus hit its peak in New Jersey in April and May, when new cases ranged from 2,000 to 4,000 a day. Unfortunately, the month of October has seen a rise in numbers once again, from an average of 300 to 500 cases a day to over 1,000 cases per day. This change can be attributed to both society and the economy returning to more normalcy, but rising infection rates are a sign that the virus is not going anywhere. Despite our best efforts, it is no secret that we have let our guards down when it comes to COVID-19.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy does not see another shutdown happening anytime soon, but New Jersey hospitals are preparing for a potential second wave. Vacant areas and ventilators have been made readily available in the event of another surge in patients. Both testing and early treatment have resulted in faster recoveries as well as a lower mortality rate. The public has adjusted to life in the middle of a pandemic through the continued usage of face masks and proper sanitization practices and regulations, but it is not over.
Cliffside Park High School and several neighboring schools have temporarily shifted to an all-remote plan in response to students testing positive for the virus. Students and teachers have been forced to quarantine as well as adjust to a new schedule, both of which have become regular occurrences. Frequent closures and changes also prove to be a major setback for after school athletic and academic programs. Furthermore, the PSAT exam scheduled for October 29th has been pushed to January 26th in light of the shift to remote learning. It is important that we stay attentive, informed, and in contact with our school administration as our situation evolves. With the flu season just around the corner, we must continue to take safety precautions into consideration and take care of ourselves and others before all else.
Sources:
Comments