The true toll of the COVID-19 pandemic is taking shape in the South Bay as the calendar year comes to a close.
COVID-19 is projected to be the third leading cause of death in Santa Clara County in 2020, behind only heart disease and cancer. According to new numbers released early Wednesday, health officials have tallied 632 deaths from complications related to COVID-19.
"Tragically, these are 632 families who are grieving this holiday season," said Cindy Chavez, President of the County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors. "Let’s not forget the countless others who have loved ones in the hospital, and the healthcare workers trying to keep them alive as we speak. A simple family meal may seem harmless until it is too late. Please protect the ones you love by staying home and staying safe."
Since mid-November, the average number of people dying a day from COVID-19 has doubled to six.
"This is not the data any of us wanted to share but it is the reality of where we are in this pandemic," said Santa Clara County Health Officer Dr. Sara Cody. "The numbers do not lie. We have now seen how Thanksgiving gatherings fueled the spread of the virus and we must slow it down now before it completely overwhelms our health systems. We are nearly at the breaking point."
The coronavirus pandemic has also taken a heavy toll on businesses and mental health in the Bay Area and around the country, leaving lasting effects even as the crisis continues.
Dr. Cody herself even got emotional during a COVID-19 update last week.
Health officials locally and nationwide expect a post-holiday surge on top of the current surge in new cases and deaths, despite warnings not to gather.
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