cone said:
it isn't meaningless
a lockdown now would be effective and help reset the infectious reservoir and prevent potential epidemic overshoot
if that's worth the cost is a real debate, but locking down isn't a worthless step, even if someone as frivolous as Lina is pushing for it
What is currently open that we think is a significant source of spread?
Bars are closed. Restaurants are at limited capacity (and the few I've been to in the last 2 months have been nearly empty).
Air travel is WAY down.
I honestly do not think anyone is catching this at HEB, Trader Joe's, Lowe's, etc - unless you let someone cough all over you. I personally don't get close enough to anyone for long enough to let that happen.
Gyms - this prob is a source of spread. But no one HAS to go to a gym right now. And the people who do are probably some of the healthiest/lowest risk people.
So, what's left to close? Dentists and eye doctors offices? These are medical professionals who should know how to keep people safe. If you don't feel safe going, stay home.
Small retail? Like restaurants, most of these places aren't seeing a lot of traffic right now. Some places didn't even reopen after the first shutdown. And social distancing in a store is not difficult.
Salons? Again, if you don't feel safe, don't get your hair cut or your nails done.
All another shutdown will do is arbitrarily close some businesses while keeping others open. We will be able to buy mattresses and liquor but not get new glasses.
And the people who are sick will still be irresponsibly gathering with groups of family and friends and spreading this around!