Can Ventilators Influence the Course of an Epidemic?
Yes, ventilators can significantly influence the course of an epidemic. By improving survival rates among severe cases, they can decrease the overall case fatality rate. This, in turn, may alter public health strategies and interventions. For instance, a higher availability of ventilators can lead to a more aggressive approach in treating severe cases, potentially reducing the spread of the infection through quicker recovery and isolation of patients.