Covid Update: Death by Complacency?
- Don Mosier | Rimini Road
We are 4 and one-half years into the COVID pandemic, and most of us have come to terms with the risks infection with this virus poses. If we take the risks seriously, as anyone over 65 years of age should, we have had at least four vaccine shots and continue to wear masks when in crowded confines. Has this strategy worked?
Yes, but with some concerns. The most reliable statistic for those of us living in San Diego County is the number of deaths caused by COVID-19 per year (actually, the fiscal year beginning July 1). In 2020-21, before vaccines were widely available, there were 3,402 deaths with 80% of those in individuals over 65. For 2021-22, after vaccines became available, deaths declined to 1,635, most of them in the over 65 age group. In 2022-23, deaths declined to 632, and in 2023-24, the number was 362. An encouraging trend, although COVID-related deaths were 10-times higher than flu-related deaths.
Data for COVID-related deaths in 2024-25 began on July 1st and extends through the end of September. The number is 135, which means that July, August, and September had more deaths than would have been expected, and the late summer bump in infections with new COVID variants was a deadly reminder of how lethal this disease can be for those of us over 65.
We don’t know how many of these fatal infections occurred in individuals who were fully vaccinated, although past experience suggests that lack of current vaccination was a risk factor. Treatment of severe COVID-19 infection has improved, but older individuals may have other health problems that contribute to their failure to survive. Nonetheless, it is difficult to accept that a disease that is lessened by adequate vaccination and antiviral treatment continues of extract a deadly toll. If we see a winter surge in infections, it is likely that the death toll will exceed that of last year. I think we have become too complacent about the risks of COVID, and that we need to encourage all our senior citizens in Del Mar to pay more attention. A booster and a mask could save your life.