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Covid-19 (Coronavirus) in Florida & New York. Sunlight?

Covid-19 and sunlight, in our hearts and minds, by Marc Sorenson, EdD

Sunlight for Covid-19 exposure

Covid-19 (coronavirus) is a topic that is inescapable in our times.  The media discusses it relentlessly and it is in the hearts and minds of nearly every citizen. And why not? We all know of friends or acquaintances who have had the disease, and it has become a political football. So what can we do about it? There are certain geographical and population differences in Covid 19 incidence and death that may provide some insight. Thus, New York and Florida provide interesting contrasts for the difference in incidence.

Shawn Hannity’s interview with Florida’s Governor DeSantis provides thought-provoking insight and fascinating facts regarding Covid-19.  

First of all, Florida and New York are heavily populated states. Yet, as you can see from this graph, death risk is minuscule in Florida compared to New York. The graph shows the comparison of death rates.

Covid-19 fatalities in New York and Florida

Because of New York’s high population density, with people living nearly on top of each other, epidemic diseases spread easily. Thomas Jefferson, third president of United States, once made this clairvoyant statement. “When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe.” Perhaps he should have used the word “ill” rather than corrupt.  

Here are more reasons for the stark contrast in Covid-19 deaths between New York and Florida.

Here are New York’s responses to the Covid-19 epidemic.

  • New York shut down nearly all social gathering places. Yet, their leaders in the beginning told people to congregate and have a good time.
  • New York made homes a breeding ground for Covid-19 infection with “shelter in place” orders.
  • New York forced many elderly patients and others, whom they had no room for in regular hospitals, to live in nursing homes. Thus, they produced a hotbed for infection. Twenty-five percent of all deaths from Covid-19 in New York occurred in nursing homes.
  • New York has resisted the demand to return people to work and to use outdoor areas with social distancing.
  • Furthermore, New York City was appallingly unprepared to provide masks, ventilators and other medical equipment.

The reaction to Covid-19 in Florida.

The power of sunlight for health beyond Covid-19

More benefits of sunlight exposure

Conclusions regarding New York, Florida and Covid-19

 Florida made better choices and earlier choices regarding the Covid-19 epidemic. They also opened their beaches in a reasonable manner. This allowed more sun exposure.

When the disease diminishes this summer, it will be due to sun exposure that produces vitamin D and many other healthful photoproducts. In addition, remember, that sun exposure effects positive changes well beyond stopping the coronavirus.

Non-burning sun exposure is essential, and best around midday. Do not overexpose. My previous blog presented guidelines for sun exposure. Also, be sure to read my book, Embrace the Sun. In addition, visit my previous blog for more information.

 Happy Sunning!

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