COVID-19 is non-partisan. Republicans, Democrats, conservatives, liberals, “Bernie Bros,” Trumpists, and socialists are all the same to the coronavirus. However, in the 108th District, represented by none other than Beau “What, me worry?” LaFave, there is a cautionary tale to be told. U.S. Census data 2019 estimates show about 84,000 residents in District 108, of which nearly 19,320 are 65 and older and about 10,613 are disabled and younger than 65.

The Centers for Disease Control advise that the aged, those with serious health condition of any age — such as heart problems, diabetes, compromised immune systems and obesity — are at higher risk. COVID-19 has killed 1,768 Michigan residents according to WLUC-TV and there were 27,001 cases in Michigan as of April 14. Department of Health and Human Services figures show 55 COVID-19 cases in the U.P. and nine deaths. The 108th District has had 13 cases and three deaths. Statewide, the average age for the deceased is 73.3.

So, in the 108th District, knowing that 83% of COVID-19 deaths in Michigan are suffered by persons age 60 and older (MDHHS), understanding that 36% of the people in the 108th District are at a higher risk, arguing that we should depart from CDC guidelines and Gov. Whitmer’s stay-at-home order is shortsighted, at least, and risks the lives of the population at large, those at risk in particular, and threatens the limited ability of U.P. health facilities, which MDHHS reports has only 34 adult ICU beds, 34 available ventilators and 74 total ventilators.

So LaFave’s grandstanding about the inconvenience of Gov. Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order ignores what DHHS Chief Deputy for Health Dr. Khaldun says: “It’s clear that staying home is the most effective way we can slow the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan. This aggressive action will help us protect more people and ease the strain on our health care system.”

But if we ignore the CDC, the MDHHS and the governor, good old Beau should know MDHHS reports there are 27 morgue beds available in the U.P. for his constituents, if and when things go awry.