Dr. Tripathy on Known Elements of COVID-19

Debu Tripathy, MD, professor and chairman, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses known elements of COVID-19.

The impact of the novel COVID-19 is largely unknown at this point, says Tripathy. However, it seems as though COVID-19, which is more widespread than past viral outbreaks such as Ebola, does not have as high a morality rate. Currently, the mortality rate is estimated to range between 1% and 3%. However, in orders of magnitude, the mortality rate is higher than the flu, says Tripathy.

Additionally, it appears that a group of asymptomatic patients can be carriers and be contagious, which may make containment difficult.

The virus will undoubtedly impact the way the world lives in the short-term, adds Tripathy. Whether the virus is on a trajectory to impact life in the long-term has yet to be seen. However, amplified testing and awareness could help reduce further spread, concludes Tripathy.