Virus in review: On nation’s highways, it’s a pandemic of speeding

Police around the country report that as roads and highways emptied during the pandemic, some drivers took advantage by pushing well past the speed limit.

Police who have increased speeding ticketing over 100% already planned a heavy presence over the Labor Day weekend as traffic levels return but drivers keep a foot on the gas.

Also this past week: By some measures, the shrunken U.S. job market continued a solid recovery last month, with many employers recalling workers who had been temporarily laid off when the coronavirus erupted in the spring.

Yet hiring slowed for a second straight month. 

Pressures on U.S. households feel apparent: The percentage of households by state that say the will have difficulty meeting their rent next month is growing. This map is current as of Sept. 2, 2020. Source: The Aspen Institute and the COVID-19 Eviction Defense Project.

November surprise: A vaccine?

Also last week, states across the United States should be prepared to distribute a coronavirus vaccine by November 1 “just in case” one is ready, the U.S. Surgeon General said.

When asked whether the November goal has more to do with science or reelection efforts, Dr. Jerome Adams said the data from trials have been positive.

“The most telling thing I can say to people is that when there is a Covid vaccine available, I and my family will be in line to get it,” said Adams. “I think it will be safe, I think it will be effective and I think it will help us end this outbreak.”

In farm country, another tradition bites the dust 

Among the many summertime traditions being hit hard by the coronavirus are the nation’s county and state fairs. About 80% have been called off or drastically scaled down by eliminating carnival rides, concerts and tractor pulls, according to the International Association of Fairs and Expositions.

Some are only allowing youth livestock competitions and auctions or opening for “fair food drive-thrus.” For those who have spent the past year feeding, cleaning and working with their animals in hopes of winning a blue ribbon and maybe some money for college, there is no replacing the missed experiences of the fair.

Virus by the numbers

The torrid coronavirus summer across the Sun Belt is easing after two disastrous months that brought more than 35,000 deaths. This map shows COVID-19 related deaths per 100,000 people in nine states for July and August. This table is current as of Sept. 1, 2020. Source: Johns Hopkins University.