THREAD on #COVID19 testing: Keep getting asked why testing is so limited in America versus what S. Korea & others did. This is a good article that explains some of it. But here's my attempt to break it down more simply. propublica.org/article/how-so… 1./
To understand why testing is so limited here, there are 3 factors: 1) the availability of tests; 2) the ability to process tests; and 3) the restrictions that have been placed on testing, either from the federal or state levels. 2./
But we still don't have enough actual tests at this moment. VP Pence announced today that 1.9 million tests will be available on Monday, which will be critical progress if it happens. Remember, too, that each person requires 2-3 test samples. 4./
Then you get to 2nd factor, which is lab capacity to process the tests. Meaningless to talk about # of tests available if they can't be processed. Lab capacity different in every single state, & we need commercial labs processing for more capacity. 5./
Then to 3rd factor: restrictions on testing. CDC started w/ severe restrictions on testing which was a huge mistake and partly due to limited kits and inability to process tests & partly due to Trump's refusal to accept the science of #COVID19. 6./
CDC restrictions on testing created bottleneck. But states have also had to triage testing until capacity increases, which is what you are seeing now with saying the most vulnerable & public health workers should be the ones tested.
To know what we are dealing with, we need capacity to test everyone. We are making assumptions that you can only transmit if symptomatic, but that is now in question according to researchers, which makes it even more important to test everyone. 8./
More testing essential to get correct rates, see what is before us & get correct responses. Also must ensure we get tests into jails, immigration detention ctrs, & poorest communities. #COVID19 doesn't discriminate. EVERYONE's health suffers if we don't take care of ALL. 9./
