Data to the People
Johns Hopkins University–whose World Map of coronavirus cases has been viewed more than 333 million times–just launched its COVID-19 Testing Insights Initiative.
The informational hub pairs the latest testing data with expert analysis and guidance and will be continuously updated with new information about COVID-19 testing.
As states begin to consider when and how to reopen, increasing testing has come into focus as one of the most critical needs. Governments, businesses and families need the most up-to-date data on testing to make important decisions around a path forward. But local testing data is not currently publicly available, and a comprehensive set of these data does not exist in one place.
The Testing Insights Initiative was created to fill that gap. There, you can find:
- Answers to the most pressing questions about testing
- Charts and graphs updated daily and enhanced with analysis
- News about the development and availability of serology tests
For even more insights from the experts about our current understanding of the virus, check out the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.
Big Gains for Virtual Fitness
Google searches for exercise equipment have increased dramatically as many of us seek workout workarounds.
With many gyms and fitness studios closed, searches for Peloton exercise bikes, yoga mats, “where to buy weights” and “home gym” have increased five, two, eight and four times respectively from their pre-pandemic averages.
And fitness companies are answering our call for at-home experiences.
Some gyms are renting out gear (weights, yoga mats, etc.) as stores run out. Many fitness instructors and studios are offering free or donation-based online classes.
A few boutique brands, like Peloton, whose high-end spin bikes and treadmills allow subscribers to join virtual fitness classes, are even enjoying a sales and shares spike.
Last month, when the company extended the free trial of its app from 30 to 90 days, downloads increased fivefold.
The boost is much needed across the connected cycling industry, which has suffered from several obstacles: pricey products, a limited potential consumer pool and market saturation. (And, in Peloton’s case, an infamous holiday ad that caused its December search spike–though some on social media have since changed their tune).
We’ll see if these trends continue as warmer weather brings more runners and cyclists outdoors. (After all, it’s gonna be May).
COVID-19 By The Numbers
Art Imitates Life
Art museums exist at a carefully calibrated intersection of exclusivity and community.
Their primary mission is to make art accessible, yet these institutions are frequently targeted as elitist.
Could the pandemic finally turn this perception on its head?
In early March, like most non-essential businesses, museums around the world were forced to close their gilded doors.
Many of these institutions responded with incredible entrepreneurial spirit and began to do what was once unimaginable for many of them– share their vast collection of treasures online.
Now, you can #MuseumFromHome by:
- Exploring the Forbidden City at The Palace Museum in high definition
- Rearranging displays of modern European masterpieces at The Barnes Foundation
- Browsing two million years of animals at the British Museum
- Taking an audio tour at The Met (and seeing how aficionados are reinterpreting famous artworks from their homes)
- Joining a scavenger hunt at the National Museum of Women in the Arts
These online experiences have also become a resource for newly-minted teachers (ie: parents).
Digital assets can never replicate seeing art in-person, but so far the digitization of museums has been a resounding success. The Musée du Louvre, The National Gallery of Art and the Met have all seen huge spikes in web traffic.
Know Thyself
Tucked away in the confines of studio apartments and home with parents since universities closed, young people in particular are taking the opportunity for self-reflection.
Enter internet personality tests. If streaming services are the big winner of staying home, the runner-up might be the Enneagram Personality Test–to the tune of a 179% year over year increase.
The popular system assigns you one of nine personality types defined by emotions, fears and beliefs. The 105-question test takes about 10 minutes to complete and gives you that “Aha!” feeling of recognition that you’re not alone. You can figure out your type here.
Uncertainty about the future may also be driving a spike in conversation about horoscopes, up 52% since last year.
We may not know what’s written in the stars. But whether you’re a Reformer, Helper, Achiever, or even a Challenger, we’re all in this together.
