Anthony Fauci cautions about economy reopening, says the nation is not yet ready

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• Dr. Fauci says opening the economy again will take more studies, noting that reinfection is possible.
• The doctor recommends mitigating the restriction measures that must be done in a gradual phase.
• Dr. Fauci’s team focuses on analyzing blood samples for the possible development of antibodies against the infection.

On Tuesday, America’s top coronavirus expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, didn’t seem to share President Donald Trump’s enthusiasm in reopening the country’s economy, noting the U.S. still has backlogs with coronavirus testing kits and efficient tracing measures to make it a reality.

In an interview with the Associated Press, Dr. Fauci said that a reliable and efficient system must first be in place. 

The remarks by the Trump administration’s coronavirus task force member was following the president’s thoughts on how fast businesses can resume, and citizens can get working again.

Trump, during a daily presser on Monday, cited the likelihood of gradual reopening of some places in the country around May 1, as he also plans to give the recommendations within the week.

The president also reiterated that he has full control when to ease out on the restrictions, and start the economy over.

Dr. Fauci noted that the planned May 1 schedule is a bit too hopeful for several areas in the U.S, adding that lifting some of the measures, like social distancing, must be done on a slow phase, and not all at the same time.

He believes that an untimely reopening may potentially give way to new outbreaks in places where social distancing was lifted. This will be a difficult situation since the health agencies don’t yet have enough capability to conduct rapid testing, contact tracing, and isolate newly infected individuals.

Fauci also told the outlet that once the government starts putting down its guard, he’s certain of new cases, noting that the key against the spread of coronavirus is separating those who are infected.

On Monday, Dr. Fauci admitted to A.P. that he might have used some bad choice of words during a CNN interview, which led to the #FireFauci retweet by the president himself.

Fauci also told the outlet that while he understands the importance of giving an update to Americans, he prefers to spend more time at the actual work, which includes blood screening analysis.

The procedure is important in determining the antibodies which were formed by immune systems of people who were previously exposed to the coronavirus.

The 79-year-old specialist notes the success of these tests will be vital in deciding whether people can go back to work soon. Fauci said his group has been working along with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to certify the antibody tests.

Dr. Fauci and his staff of other experts are aiming to substantiate up to what amount of antibodies would it be needed to be immuned.

Fauci further noted that a second wave or reinfection is not unavoidable, but added what they’re working on can help the government can deal with it more efficiently should another pandemic ensues.

Source: New York Post