1) the test kits
2) necessary components, like extraction kits and swabs (believe it or not, the main manufacturer for the swabs is in Lombardy, Italy...), and
3) PPE
The old qualification was: fever + negative flu test + cough OR shortness of breath.
The new qualification is: fever + negative flu test + cough AND shortness of breath (or other serious symptom).
We're on to Plan B, and there is no Plan C.
So we have to make this work.
The bottom-line here is we're doing everything we can to get our hands on more PPE (personal protective equipment = masks/gloves/gowns).
- We're getting it from the federal government. We've received two shipments already, with more coming.
- We're working with NC manufacturers.
- We're asking citizens to donate PPE they may have (email BEOC@ncdps.gov, or if you're near a Novant hospital you can email donatesupplies@NovantHealth.org).
- Hospitals are looking at sites for possible rapid expansion, if necessary.
- They are stressing tele-health as much as possible to free up space.
They've been activated, but only to supply logistical and transportation support. I happen to be in the National Guard, and I was given a heads up that I might be called in. If I am, I'll let you know.
This is all about buying time for our hospitals to gear up.
It's rare that our country rapidly shifts to a single point of focus, but we're there. Flattening the curve is what we do now; it's who we are.
We still have time to get this right in North Carolina.