On Friday, state health officials announced that at least 391 people now have died from complications of the novel coronavirus in Colorado. They also confirmed 100 outbreaks at contained facilities such as nursing homes, long-term care facilities and factories — seven more than the previous day.
With the number of cases continuing to rise, health care workers are telling The Denver Post that they do not feel adequately protected while treating patients.
“The feeling — and it’s a pretty overwhelming feeling, and it’s very common one right now — is to walk in the hospital and you just know it’s almost like a death sentence. I’m an ICU doctor. I’m not intrinsically afraid. But it’s fear provoking, knowing you’re not protected,” said a senior ICU physician for a large hospital system. “There’s no possibility I’m adequately protected. So the only question is have I already gotten (the virus), and if not, if I get it, how sick will I get? That’s the feeling everybody has.”
Meanwhile, protests have been planned at the state Capitol on Sunday against the “draconian” coronavirus stay-at-home orders. Though, protestors have been asked to wear masks and stand 6 feet apart.
Remember, all Coloradans have been asked to wear non-medical masks when outside their homes to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Want to know how to make one? There’s plenty of ideas floating around in our coronavirus-focused Facebook group.
We are also looking to hear from you. Tell us what the coronavirus outbreak looks like for you and submit your story here.
Throughout the day, we will share the latest coverage from Denver Post journalists on the coronavirus outbreak on this page. Also, bear in mind The Denver Post relies on support from its readers to provide this in-depth coverage of the coronavirus outbreak, so please consider buying a subscription if you haven’t already.
Here are the updates from April 17.
Resources
The numbers
What’s new today
- Colorado health care workers on the front lines of coronavirus fight speak out: “I’m afraid about being dead”
- Best-case scenario, Denver restrictions could lift in 2-4 months, city officials say
- Denver dialysis centers separating patients with coronavirus to try to protect those at high risk
- Denver small businesses pitch in to pep up workers on the frontlines of COVID-19
- Denver Botanic Gardens’ giant Spring Plant Sale is still on — but you have to move quick
- AEG Presents and Live Nation offer refunds after consumer anger, lawmaker pressure
