Pierce Optimistic About Next 2 Weeks

Encouraging signs. But do not let up.

That’s the message from Cookeville Regional’s Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Mark Pierce.

“I really think that in the next two weeks, we’re going to see a significant decrease in the number of cases,” Pierce said. “But what that means is that we can’t let our guard down because with everybody being vulnerable to this virus, if we begin to get out and move around, it will come roaring back. And there’s no question about that.”

COVID-19 cases across Tennessee showed single-digit growth for a fifth straight day Wednesday. Pierce said that’s a result of people practicing social distancing and staying home.

“It’s important for us to continue that staying at home and social distancing, take that very seriously, because again, you yourself may not be sick from it,” Pierce said.

Pierce said in some people the symptoms may be so mild that you might think you have allergy symptoms. But that’s when you are highly contagious to other people.

“You might be someone who’s positive and not realize it,” Pierce said. “So take those recommendations seriously.”