While I don't disagree with the give-and-take comment from a general perspective, I don't get why people keep repeating this "the bad economy is going to kill more people than the virus will" nonsense. The virus has killed approximately 81,000 people in the US alone over the last two or three months (and that's WITH social distancing and other guidelines). And another 286,000 people have died from it worldwide. A poor economy isn't going to kill anywhere near that number.
You're right that we can't stay at home forever. But we should be sensible about how and when we re-open. However, when some people are so fragile that it causes them to freak out and protest over small precautions like wearing masks in public, I start to see the wisdom in erring on the side of caution since those people apparently can't be trusted to make sensible decisions themselves.
Agreed. Opening back up is going to happen, but it has to be a very controlled and methodical process with a million upon a million variables for each business and how they do it. This is where, as a society and as local communities, need to really be careful and use their best judgement. I also have a huge issue for people that refuse to wear a mask in public. Those people are where we are as a country. Its just straight stupidity. Even if the mask are 10% effective, that snowballs into some real numbers eventually. Everyone should do everything they can to limit their exposure to other people. If you can return to work and do it with relative safety, do it. If you do not have to go back into the office, work with your employer and see if an alternative can be reached. Listen to the federal AND state guidelines. Always act on the side of caution with this virus. Our understanding of this virus is going to change as we progress towards a possible vaccine. Don't allow yourself to be bothered if the scientific community changes a course of action on things such as masks and gloves, etc. We are learning more about this thing every day and I guarantee that some of our recommended social actions are going to change throughout the process.
So, just a reminder:
Social distance whenever you HAVE to go into public. 6 feet min, 12 feet better.
Do not go into public any more than you HAVE to.
Limit groups of people to 10 or less. I would urge less than 10.
Do not go and visit your old grandparents, mothers, etc unless you absolutely have to. Noted that once you do, you have a responsibility to take care of yourself for them.
Wash your hands every opportunity you get for 20+ seconds with water and any kind of soap. Wash every finger, your palm, your thumb, between your fingers, and up your arm 3-4 inches. Make sure everything is scrubbed and you didn't miss anything. Wash them as if you have motor oil on them.
Shave off your beard or mustache.
Refrain from touching your face. Especially in public. If you do, wash your hands immediately.
Always wash up thoroughly prior to eating.
Do not lick door knobs.
If you have a fever, go to the doctor immediately.
If you develop a dry cough, go to the doctor immediately.
If you feel "off" go to the doctor immediately.
Enjoy your time with your family. Work hard to follow any guidelines the scientist are giving you, even if you have a philosophical issue with them.
I would also advise people to go and get the antibody test. If you come back positive, and the doctors can clear you for further transmission, 17 it, you can do whatever you want.
