Chip: When (not if) Gophers test COVID-19-positive, time to listen to doctors and not loudest voices

To keep the infection numbers and impact at a manageable level until reliable treatments are widely available to bridge the time needed for a vaccine.
long term studies shouldn’t be done to make sure the vaccine is safe, I’m sure. So theoretically we should stay socially distanced and shut down for years if we wanted to treat it the right way. I would hate to see a ton of people have harmful side effects from a vaccine that was rushed into the public.
 

The problem in simply "listening to the doctors" is they really don't have the answers either.

Almost every model has been terribly off-base, leading to some guidelines that ended up doing more harm than good. Many of the data points have been tainted by political and emotional motivations rather than simply inputting the science.

Some well-respected doctors are saying masks don't help, others are saying we should require wearing masks at all times; some well-respected doctors are saying this virus cannot be transmitted outdoors, others are saying it can. Some well-respected doctors say based on science we should be closing things down, others are saying based on data we need to move forward with opening things up.

So, the question for Chip is -- to which doctors should we choose to listen?
The scientists and medical experts are starting to narrow down these things. Most believe masks do help to some degree. Most think that the virus is mainly spread from close contact indoors. Doesn't mean masks are perfect or that it can't be spread outdoors at all.

The problem is many people are choosing to believe just about anything they want to believe. For instance, there's a facebook post floating around that says masks are bad and it's written by someone that is OSHA certified. That somehow makes that person someone worth listening to.
 

long term studies shouldn’t be done to make sure the vaccine is safe, I’m sure. So theoretically we should stay socially distanced and shut down for years if we wanted to treat it the right way. I would hate to see a ton of people have harmful side effects from a vaccine that was rushed into the public.
Treatments are being tested and will bridge the gap until a vaccine is available. We've learned a lot in three months. The issue right now with new case spikes as we open back up is enough people are not continuing to practice social distancing and mask wearing. Walked by several establishments this weekend and neither was happening...crowded bars and tables.

A recent clip on CNN interviewed three women in their 20s who went out with a group of 15 to bar hop in FLA. None wore masks, they did not no social distance, and all 15 caught the virus. These three got sick, as well as several others in the group. They admitted it was their fault for not doing either. I'm guessing the contact tracing requirement in FLA are not very tight or being followed at many establishments, so the spike should not be surprising.
 

It was never an accepted concept that if we shut everything down, and social distance, that this virus was going to disappear entirely right? I thought they expect over half of the U.S. population to get this shit at some point. I’m confused as to what the goal is anymore. If people feel like they’re at high risk of death if they get it, then they can stay locked inside as long as they want. Let those that want to resume life get back to it.
It's been explained to you many times why it isn't that simple. You just refuse to try to understand.
 

Treatments are being tested and will bridge the gap until a vaccine is available. We've learned a lot in three months. The issue right now with new case spikes as we open back up is enough people are not continuing to practice social distancing and mask wearing. Walked by several establishments this weekend and neither was happening...crowded bars and tables.

A recent clip on CNN interviewed three women in their 20s who went out with a group of 15 to bar hop in FLA. None wore masks, they did not no social distance, and all 15 caught the virus. These three got sick, as well as several others in the group. They admitted it was their fault for not doing either. I'm guessing the contact tracing requirement in FLA are not very tight or being followed at many establishments, so the spike should not be surprising.
There's still way too many people that seem to think it's an all or nothing situation. The best way to get to a somewhat normal life again is by everyone doing their part. Some people think they can't live their life by making very small sacrifices. How spoiled and selfish have we become?
 


It's been explained to you many times why it isn't that simple. You just refuse to try to understand.
I just don’t think it’s dangerous and I think the social distancing, and having things shut down, is stupid. Haven’t heard good enough reasons to justify it yet. Haven’t changed my routine at all, haven’t gotten the virus. Just don’t buy it
 

I just don’t think it’s dangerous and I think the social distancing, and having things shut down, is stupid. Haven’t heard good enough reasons to justify it yet. Haven’t changed my routine at all, haven’t gotten the virus. Just don’t buy it
Most people don’t want to shut things down again. It definitely wouldn’t happen if people would just do really simple things.
 

Another note about one fan suggesting that the players infect each other and get it over with. It is not just about being sick or dying, it comes with a risk of significant organ damage.
 

It depends on who the friends are, or what they do in their spare time. Use your imagination.

Curious how many stereotypes are floating around your imagination. Guessing more than zero.
 



Curious how many stereotypes are floating around your imagination. Guessing more than zero.

Let’s not pretend some athletes don't come from rough backgrounds. For many, college sports is the way out. These are the facts.
 

Haven’t changed my routine at all, haven’t gotten the virus. Just don’t buy it
I love how insanely self-centered this mindset is. It explains so much.

“Forget about all the social distancing, increased cleaning practices, and other preventative measures that are being taken by responsible people all around me. Things that are being done to minimize the risk that I face. I’ve done literally nothing to help and I haven’t been affected.”
 

I love how insanely self-centered this mindset is. It explains so much.

“Forget about all the social distancing, increased cleaning practices, and other preventative measures that are being taken by responsible people all around me. Things that are being done to minimize the risk that I face. I’ve done literally nothing to help and I haven’t been affected.”

I mean, look who you're talking to. That's the same dude that literally won't admit that racial inequalities exist because the black people he has talked to or is friends with "haven't had issues". So that deep research and life experience makes it a fact.

Felton's opinions come from a very small sample size - like South St. Paul small.
 

I mean, look who you're talking to. That's the same dude that literally won't admit that racial inequalities exist because the black people he has talked to or is friends with "haven't had issues". So that deep research and life experience makes it a fact.

Felton's opinions come from a very small sample size - like South St. Paul small.
No I also went to Mankato for college and worked many jobs while going to school there. was surrounded by thousands of minorities. Friends with many of them. But yeah, South Saint Paul small.
 



I love how insanely self-centered this mindset is. It explains so much.

“Forget about all the social distancing, increased cleaning practices, and other preventative measures that are being taken by responsible people all around me. Things that are being done to minimize the risk that I face. I’ve done literally nothing to help and I haven’t been affected.”
Yes, so self-centered to live the life I would like to, because I only get one. Last I checked this was America, although that’s slowly going away.
 

Yes, so self-centered to live the life I would like to, because I only get one. Last I checked this was America, although that’s slowly going away.
It’s self-centered to ignore the contributions of everyone else around you and pretend that you’re the only factor that matters. It’s worrying how hard that is for you to grasp.
 

It’s self-centered to ignore the contributions of everyone else around you and pretend that you’re the only factor that matters. It’s worrying how hard that is for you to grasp.
I don’t feel that all the precautions and rules set in place are making that much of a difference, so why am I supposed to appreciate the contributions people are making to something I don’t agree with. I can’t believe it’s so hard for you to grasp personal freedom. Oh and I don’t believe I’m the only factor that matters. My wife and family matter more to me, but they also don’t social distance or buy into any of this shit. So you should probably tell them all how selfish they are, want their cell numbers?
 

Treatments are being tested and will bridge the gap until a vaccine is available. We've learned a lot in three months. The issue right now with new case spikes as we open back up is enough people are not continuing to practice social distancing and mask wearing. Walked by several establishments this weekend and neither was happening...crowded bars and tables.

A recent clip on CNN interviewed three women in their 20s who went out with a group of 15 to bar hop in FLA. None wore masks, they did not no social distance, and all 15 caught the virus. These three got sick, as well as several others in the group. They admitted it was their fault for not doing either. I'm guessing the contact tracing requirement in FLA are not very tight or being followed at many establishments, so the spike should not be surprising.
It's Florida.

Tampa/Gainesville/Jacksonville + the panhandle, are just as bad/ignorant/racist as the deep south.
 

It’s self-centered to ignore the contributions of everyone else around you and pretend that you’re the only factor that matters. It’s worrying how hard that is for you to grasp.
He, and a sad niche of others, believe they have a birth"right" to be able to infect others with a deadly disease, if they choose to.

And I have the "right" to swiftly kick them in the nuts, if they get near me without a mask on.
 

I don’t feel that all the precautions and rules set in place are making that much of a difference, so why am I supposed to appreciate the contributions people are making to something I don’t agree with.

You’re incapable of seeing how maintaining a little bit of distance between people, coupled with improved cleaning of surfaces, helps slow the spread of a virus? I genuinely don’t understand how you can be that actively ignorant. Take a quick look at Florida’s reported cases over time, noting when the state began lifting restrictions.

945A2E4C-705E-45DB-83DE-47841F72B983.png
If you were arguing that you’re not concerned about your personal health, that’s one thing. I could almost understand the self-centeredness there, and the ignorance of your impact on the health of others. Or if you were arguing that the economic impact outweighs the health benefits, sure. But to be so proudly ignorant to the efficacy of preventative measures is incredibly sad.


My wife and family matter more to me, but they also don’t social distance or buy into any of this shit. So you should probably tell them all how selfish they are, want their cell numbers?
If you want me to give them a call, I’d love to. Perhaps the inability to learn from basic evidence isn’t a shared trait. Feel free to post their numbers, or private message me if you don’t want to post them publicly.
 

He, and a sad niche of others, believe they have a birth"right" to be able to infect others with a deadly disease, if they choose to.

And I have the "right" to swiftly kick them in the nuts, if they get near me without a mask on.
I don’t have the virus and haven’t had it. I wouldn’t purposefully infect anyone. Just as I wouldn’t purposely sneeze without covering my face if I had a common cold. Just as I wouldn’t go to work if I had the flu. I’m not going to restrict my happiness or my life to prevent spreading something I don’t have.
 

You’re incapable of seeing how maintaining a little bit of distance between people, coupled with improved cleaning of surfaces, helps slow the spread of a virus? I genuinely don’t understand how you can be that actively ignorant. Take a quick look at Florida’s reported cases over time, noting when the state began lifting restrictions.

View attachment 8465
If you were arguing that you’re not concerned about your personal health, that’s one thing. I could almost understand the self-centeredness there, and the ignorance of your impact on the health of others. Or if you were arguing that the economic impact outweighs the health benefits, sure. But to be so proudly ignorant to the efficacy of preventative measures is incredibly sad.



If you want me to give them a call, I’d love to. Perhaps the inability to learn from basic evidence isn’t a shared trait. Feel free to post their numbers, or private message me if you don’t want to post them publicly.
I don’t believe the statistics coming from anywhere on the virus. I do believe that with other viruses that staying away from people and cleaning surfaces prevents spread to other people. With this virus they’ve said it lasts on surfaces for up to 3 days, then they said they’re not sure. They’ve said it’s transmitted via droplets, and then some claimed it was also airborne, some say it isn’t airborne. Some say masks work, some say they don’t. Some say this virus was going to be horrendous, some say it’s not nearly as deadly as they thought it’d be. I don’t believe that everyone they’re saying died of covid actually died of it. My entire family has been hanging out with each other. Including my grandparents. No one has gotten it. I thought if I was hanging out around Grandma I was signing her death certificate, doesn’t seem true at all.

me and my family are doing just fine, living life as usual. I’ll consider changing my opinion if any of them get it and spread it to each other. Until then, it’s business as usual. I can’t infect others with a virus I don’t have. And no I’m not actually going to give you their numbers, they’d be pissed that I set them up with talking to someone like you.
 

Another note about one fan suggesting that the players infect each other and get it over with. It is not just about being sick or dying, it comes with a risk of significant organ damage.

Possible, but do you have statistics on the likelihood of this occurring?

Currently the cumulative rate of COVID hospitalization for 18-29 yr old cohort is 30/100k population. The rate for 5-17 is 3.5/100k population. Of those younger lab-confirmed RT-PCR positive through May 30 (which we know is a small minority of total infections particularly early on in the pandemic when testing was scarce) the cdc indicates between 0.4-0.5 percent required ICU. The rate of asymptomatic infections in young people is higher than at older ages. Some case studies indicating up to 81% of infected can be asymptomatic.

So, we (still) don’t clearly know the percentage of infected that go on to need hospitalization (supplemental oxygen > room air) or ICU but it appears to be a small fraction of a percent of infected. Many of those have preexisting problems. Experience with SARS indicates 1/3 of ICU recoveries had lung fibrosis or bone necrosis from steroids, some other issues. It’s possible there can be other complications like sepsis, amputation, heart injury in a small number.

Now, that’s scary if you’re that small percentage. But consider the relative risk of severe COVID injury to TBI, permanent back injury, functional and neurological deficits, amputation, crush injury, sight or hearing loss, hospitalization and surgery-related infection, sepsis, organ damage resulting from vehicle accidents. There are millions of injury causing crashes every year in addition to the thousands of deaths in the 18-29 age group. We have to be able to assess relative risk of our activities. Some can accept them, some can’t or won’t. I don’t blame anyone that wants to sit out the year if they are worried.

39607253-3514-4BB8-81CF-E02386AE5A31.jpeg
 

It “should” be the case that even if you 100% (purposefully) infected every player in every sport in the Big Ten schools, that none would require hospitalization.

Tempting fate like that, however, often causes it to do something drastically unexpected, and laugh at you. IE, a player dies this year from cv19.

All we can do is hope it never comes to be.



People being absurd and silly, suggesting that players dying from car accidents is the same thing, is laughable.
 

It “should” be the case that even if you 100% (purposefully) infected every player in every sport in the Big Ten schools, that none would require hospitalization.

Tempting fate like that, however, often causes it to do something drastically unexpected, and laugh at you. IE, a player dies this year from cv19.

All we can do is hope it never comes to be.



People being absurd and silly, suggesting that players dying from car accidents is the same thing, is laughable.

Sure, we can leave the car accident example out. I would argue the violent nature of the game itself is far more of a risk to these athletes, so maybe we should just ban football all together, to keep them safe.
 

No I also went to Mankato for college and worked many jobs while going to school there. was surrounded by thousands of minorities. Friends with many of them. But yeah, South Saint Paul small.

Hate to fact check you here, but Mankato State doesn't even have 1,000 black students enrolled at the university: https://datausa.io/profile/universi...lation at,Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders.

Coincidentally, which is about the same amount of black people in South St Paul's population.

Unless you produced a resume that showed that you've spent time working in other regions of the country (East Coast, Deep South, other large American cities, etc) or a passport with a bunch of international travel stamps on it, I'm going to stand by my view that you're operating with a very narrow lens. The good thing is you're only 28, so not even close to too late to be exposed to other ways of living. But something tells me that you might not be the kind of guy who sees value in getting out of your bubble.
 

Possible, but do you have statistics on the likelihood of this occurring?

Currently the cumulative rate of COVID hospitalization for 18-29 yr old cohort is 30/100k population. The rate for 5-17 is 3.5/100k population. Of those younger lab-confirmed RT-PCR positive through May 30 (which we know is a small minority of total infections particularly early on in the pandemic when testing was scarce) the cdc indicates between 0.4-0.5 percent required ICU. The rate of asymptomatic infections in young people is higher than at older ages. Some case studies indicating up to 81% of infected can be asymptomatic.

So, we (still) don’t clearly know the percentage of infected that go on to need hospitalization (supplemental oxygen > room air) or ICU but it appears to be a small fraction of a percent of infected. Many of those have preexisting problems. Experience with SARS indicates 1/3 of ICU recoveries had lung fibrosis or bone necrosis from steroids, some other issues. It’s possible there can be other complications like sepsis, amputation, heart injury in a small number.

Now, that’s scary if you’re that small percentage. But consider the relative risk of severe COVID injury to TBI, permanent back injury, functional and neurological deficits, amputation, crush injury, sight or hearing loss, hospitalization and surgery-related infection, sepsis, organ damage resulting from vehicle accidents. There are millions of injury causing crashes every year in addition to the thousands of deaths in the 18-29 age group. We have to be able to assess relative risk of our activities. Some can accept them, some can’t or won’t. I don’t blame anyone that wants to sit out the year if they are worried.

View attachment 8467
No, i do not have any stats that reveal the number or the severity of organ damage. I do know that teams are not going to be in the business of intentionally infecting one another. Great info you provided, appreciate it.
 

Treatments are being tested and will bridge the gap until a vaccine is available. We've learned a lot in three months. The issue right now with new case spikes as we open back up is enough people are not continuing to practice social distancing and mask wearing. Walked by several establishments this weekend and neither was happening...crowded bars and tables.

A recent clip on CNN interviewed three women in their 20s who went out with a group of 15 to bar hop in FLA. None wore masks, they did not no social distance, and all 15 caught the virus. These three got sick, as well as several others in the group. They admitted it was their fault for not doing either. I'm guessing the contact tracing requirement in FLA are not very tight or being followed at many establishments, so the spike should not be surprising.
This is the real issue when it comes to sports. Is a college or professional athlete likely to die or even end up hospitalized? No. But it is very contagious and once one member of the team has it, it's likely several more will. Even if not sick, those players will be removed from action for at least 14 days. You will see teams with multiple players out, in some cases perhaps to the point they must forfeit.

Also what happens if a 70 year old coach gets it and dies? Will they just press on? If it's the special teams coach of the Lions, probably. If it's Bill Belichick? Maybe not.
 

(disclaimer - I am NOT predicting this will happen and I do NOT want it to happen- just making a point.)

For all the people saying it's no big deal - if Tanner Morgan tests positive the week of the Badger game and can't play because he has to go into isolation - then it will suddenly become a very big deal.
 

Hate to fact check you here, but Mankato State doesn't even have 1,000 black students enrolled at the university: https://datausa.io/profile/university/minnesota-state-university-mankato#:~:text=The enrolled student population at,Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders.

Coincidentally, which is about the same amount of black people in South St Paul's population.

Unless you produced a resume that showed that you've spent time working in other regions of the country (East Coast, Deep South, other large American cities, etc) or a passport with a bunch of international travel stamps on it, I'm going to stand by my view that you're operating with a very narrow lens. The good thing is you're only 28, so not even close to too late to be exposed to other ways of living. But something tells me that you might not be the kind of guy who sees value in getting out of your bubble.
Well I went there from 2010-2014 and there were thousands of foreign students and black students. A lot of middle eastern students too. South Saint Paul’s black population increases constantly because they keep adding more and more section 8 housing. I’ve been to about 22 states and the Dominican Republic.
 





Top Bottom