Key developments for Tuesday, November 17, 2020
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Tensions are escalating between the United States and Iran. In 2018, the U.S. government withdrew from a nuclear agreement that had placed limits on Iran’s uranium enrichment activities. Recently, President Trump reportedly asked his top advisors about possible strikes on Iran’s primary nuclear facility. There are growing rumors that the outgoing administration may plan an attack on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure in collaboration with Israel. While it's unclear if these are just idle speculations, Iran has expressed strong disapproval of such reports.
Meanwhile, the U.S. military is reportedly acquiring location data from mobile apps, often without users' knowledge. Many app developers aren’t even aware that their users’ information can be accessed by government agencies, and user agreements rarely disclose such extensive data sharing.
Synthetic fentanyl pills are increasingly flooding streets across the country. These counterfeit drugs are extremely dangerous—fentanyl can cause respiratory failure and death even in small amounts. Overdose rates are rising sharply, and fentanyl is now one of the leading causes. Narcan, an opioid antidote available as a nasal spray, can be purchased over the counter in 12 states, including Arkansas, California, and New Jersey. It's crucial to educate your family and consider carrying Narcan—it could save a life. Don't think this crisis doesn't affect you; it might be closer than you think.
Bolivia is currently dealing with an Ebola-like hemorrhagic fever. Though the term "communicable" and "hemorrhagic" sounds alarming, this disease appears to be rare. Like Ebola, it has a low R0, a long incubation period, and is highly lethal, which means it often kills its host before they can spread it widely. This results in intense but localized outbreaks.
Globally, there have been over 55.9 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, with more than 1.3 million deaths. The U.S. leads the world with over 11.6 million cases and 254,000 deaths. In the past week alone, the U.S. recorded over 1.1 million new cases and more than 1,400 deaths. India follows closely with over 8.9 million cases, while Brazil remains the second-highest in deaths, with over 166,000 fatalities.
Cities like Chicago are issuing stay-at-home advisories due to surging case numbers. Oregon is also imposing business restrictions as infections rise. Clinical labs warn that testing backlogs may return, similar to earlier in the year. Large gatherings, such as weddings, are becoming hotspots for superspreading events. A recent wedding in Maine led to 177 infections and seven deaths, while a homecoming dance in Missouri, where masks were optional, resulted in at least 11 infections.
Dr. Fauci stated that the mink variant of the virus is unlikely to undermine current vaccines but should still be monitored. North Dakota has reversed its stance, implementing a mask mandate and dining restrictions after rising case numbers. As the holiday season approaches, experts warn that travel will likely worsen the situation. With case numbers already far beyond March’s peak, the upcoming travel rush could lead to a devastating surge. Stay home this year to protect your loved ones.