[CedarDave]

...I also believe that people being admitted to a hospital for other reasons are being tested for Covid. If they show a positive result that is counted as a Covid diagnosis sans the actual reason for admission.

Two points:

1. If you are covid-19 positive, why enter the hospital (unless an emergency) where the virus could complicate recovery from an elective procedure?

2. Why would a hospital admit a person with covid-19 (except under emergency conditions) and risk spreading to other patients and staff ?

[semimojo]

1. If you are covid-19 positive, why enter the hospital (unless an emergency) where the virus could complicate recovery from an elective procedure?

2. Why would a hospital admit a person with covid-19 (except under emergency conditions) and risk spreading to other patients and staff ?

I view your use of reason as disturbing.