Two questions
To the editor:
It is extremely easy to fact check the numbers provided by contributors to this publication but in a recent letter (2/2/2022) the author wrote: “COVID deaths due to the Omicron variant are greater than they were with the Delta variant. Over 2000 Americans die every day.”
This is quite simply not true.
COVID deaths in the U.S. peaked on Jan. 13, 2021, at 4,144 in one day. (US COVID-19 cases and deaths by state | USAFacts)
The first case of the Omicron variant in the U.S. wasn’t discovered until Dec. 20, 2021, (Omicron Variant: What You Need to Know | CDC)
The highest death rate per day since Jan. 13, 2021, was Jan. 27, 2022, with 2,745 deaths occurring on that day. On Jan. 31, 2022, 2,377 deaths were attributed to COVID. (US COVID-19 cases and deaths by state | USAFacts)
My first question is, if Omicron did not arrive in the U.S. until December of 2021 and the highest recorded death rate since the beginning of the pandemic was more than a year ago in January of 2021, then how can anyone claim that Omicron has caused more deaths than the Delta variant?
So, 4,144 deaths pre-Omicron arrival, 2,745 highest since its’ arrival-please tell me how “COVID deaths due to the Omicron variant are greater than they were with the Delta variant?”
My second question is why, when we are all asked to provide references in our contributions making flat factual assertions, was this letter permitted without references?
Giving the writer the benefit of the doubt in simply espousing incorrect information should cast at least some doubt on credibility if not motive. The previous course of action from the editor is a good one and should regulate all contributors when alleging “facts” as none of us should be victims of “fake news,” unintentional or otherwise.
Max Christian
St. James City