PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Just how accurate are the statistics that measure the number of COVID-19 cases in the country? It matters where you live.
Measuring the overall number of COVID cases has been difficult because of variations among reporting structures from state to state. It was difficult early in the pandemic, and now it is virtually impossible to get an accurate read on case numbers, now that home tests are widely available.
In fact, more than half of U.S. states report their case numbers only once each week. The big picture is that it is more difficult to know if a certain city or part of the country is experiencing a high level of COVID cases. It also puts a greater emphasis on relying on individuals to avoid exposing others when they test positive at home. The ultimate honor system.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.