New projections show fewer deaths to COVID-19, earlier peak of cases, no overrun of Kansas healthcare

Coronavirus cases in Kansas will peak earlier than previously expected, according to recent projections by the University of Washington — meaning fewer deaths from the virus and no expected overrun of state healthcare. 

The expected peak date is April 23, averaging at ten deaths per day and using up to 94 of the 278 ICU beds available in the state. 

The efforts of Kansas citizens in lockdown — since issued by Gov. Laura Kelly on March 24 — have helped to lower the rate of those falling ill with COVID-19. The current projections assume that these orders will continue to be taken seriously until issued otherwise. 

Unacast — a company that uses cellular data information to track the realities of social distancing — has issued the state of Kansas a “C” for their social distancing attributes. Johnson County specifically was issued a “B”. 

Each state and county has been issued a letter grade based on the percentage decrease in average mobility and non-essential visits. 

Kansas has a 40-55% decrease in average mobility and a 60-65% decrease in non-essential visits. Johnson County has seen a 40-55% decrease in average mobility, and greater than 70% decrease in non-essential visits. 

Moving through the next few weeks, officials are encouraging the continuation of social distancing and state-wide lockdowns, as they have been proven the most effective ways to stop the spread of COVID-19.