Many people in Arizona seem to be very complacent about the COVID 19 pandemic. Arizona appears to have many fewer cases than the rest of the nation. Unfortunately, Arizona lags far behind other states in testing for the Corona virus. Tests are in short supply. Testing gives us data as to how serious and widespread this disease really is. As an example, today March 14, 2020 326 cases have been reported with 5 deaths. Only 1 week ago Arizona had 20 cases and 0 deaths. This is a stunning exponential increase in only one week.

Even though our governor is not ordering shelter in place because “Arizona is not there yet. We’re not at the same stage as other states.” We have have no idea of where we really are because we have so little data. Hopefully, this will change soon since 6 drive through testing sites have opened this week.

Arizona political and public health leaders are not responding with a united front and sense of urgency to mitigate this pandemic. The number one infectious disease specialist in Maricopa county told the Phoenix City Council yesterday that she believed it was too early to close public spaces even those that the governor has closed like schools, gyms, bars and restaurants. Her recommendations go completely against the guidelines established by the CDC. This lack of clear coordinated leadership creates anxiety and uncertainty for all of us.

Covid 19 is here in Arizona. The number of cases increases exponentially daily. Don’t be complacent. Take precautions. Follow the recommendations of our country’s leading infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci and practice social distancing.