Covid 19 - the next steps
Here's what I would do.
(1) Formulate the plan in many states the easing up of restrictions (work with the governors to try to get this done). But for now maintain the ones in place in NY, NJ, LA, MI, CT, MA, WA and perhaps DC. Also in a few cities such as Chicago, Indianapolis, Philly and a few rural spots in the south (Albany, GA for instance), we also probably need to hold off on wholesale restrictions being lifted. Don't announce the easing of these restrictions quite yet - at least wait one more week to make sure the numbers are holding up properly (maybe even wait until the end of the month but hint that we're moving to that direction even if it's not announced officially). Continue to monitor a few more spots where we could see new outbreaks (Los Angeles, Miami, Baltimore, and perhaps Houston, Dallas and the Bay Area although so far those last three cities/regions seem to be way better than the other population giants).
(2) Make sure we continue to stress just common sense practices in place for healthy habits (washing of hands of course, social distancing if possible and if it's not possible continue to advise to wear masks and gloves in public gatherings, cover the cough/sneeze, etc.). All health workers should be monitored daily to make sure they aren't sick (a simple temperature check), and they should be required to wear N95 masks and surgical gloves unless there is a valid reason for them not to do so. All food handlers should be required to wear gloves. At the very minimum, install plastic guards in all restaurants/dining halls where food is shared (buffets, dorms, fruits and vegetable sections in supermarkets, etc.). Continue to have all schooling done remotely through the end of the school year. The social distancing barriers that are already installed in supermarkets should remain there.
(3) Try to figure out ways to maintain safer health practices in events/gatherings where masses of people will be converging (sporting events, rallies, conventions, churches, etc.). Even if it's as simple as installing hand sanitizer stations everywhere, that would help.
(4) MOST IMPORTANTLY!!! Continue to work on vaccines for the future flare-up of Covid-19 (and other new coronaviruses in the future). I think outside of a few hotspots, we'll see the numbers trend downwards from now through the end of summer in most places and maybe even winter in the warmer climates. But we need to be ready in case a 2nd outbreak returns. Work on ensuring that supplies of much needed products (masks, protective equipment, kits, etc.) continue to be produced.
(5) Just realize that the economic impacts of this outbreak are going to be continue to be felt. Some retail stores and restaurants will remain closed even if they are allowed to re-open. Others will continue to see much smaller business or just focus on online/takeout sales only. Schools and businesses may decide to continue to encourage remote working/learning.
I'm sure there are other things I'm forgetting.
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