Community Chat

[Oznell]

Just caught a bit of an interview on C-SPAN with Christian McMillen, University of Virginia historian, whose work on history's most devastating pandemics is understandably in demand right now.  His book is called "Pandemics:  A Very Short Introduction." 

His message seemed to be that relentless suppression through the social distancing being done now is of utmost importance.  He cited the infamous flu pandemic of 1918, also known as the Spanish flu.  It was, according to the CDC, the most severe pandemic in recent history.

Significantly, he said that the Eastern seaboard cities that employed, and then, kept up, the most stringent public health measures, fared the best. The period stretched over part of 1918 and the beginning of 1919.  Hardly revolutionary news in terms of common sense, but it's still good to know.

He said the crucial thing is not to relax measures prematurely, as much as we might want to return to normalcy.

I think his interview will be found in full on C-SPAN online.

[IMW]

Here in NYC the importance of social distancing is crucial right now. Hopefully the rest of the nation will be spared the very worst of this.

Please stay well and safe.

[Oznell]

Hey, thank you for the well wishes, @IMW .   The great cities like NYC with high population densities have a special burden, but I have no doubt they'll rise to the challenge, for as long as it takes.  We know New Yorkers are tough, resourceful and resilient.

Stay well!