The first of several thoughts that comes to mind is obvious. Will plenty of people die in the United States as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19)? I suppose it all depends on what one defines as "plenty of people." So far, more than 10,000 people have died worldwide of COVID-19, including 22 and counting in the U.S. The standard-issue flu has killed around 16,000+ people in the U.S. so far this season. Almost 39,000 people lost their lives in auto accidents on American motorways last year. Additionally, approximately 70,000 died of a drug overdose. Approximately 84,000 Americans died of diabetes last year. Broadening the scope, around the world, 594,000 people died of malaria. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations estimates that as many as 25,000 people lose their lives every day from hunger. That adds up to roughly 9.1 million people who die of starvation annually. What I’m trying to convey is that it’s all statistics, until it's you or someone you care about or someone of high profile. In the meantime, I am packing my 4X4 SUV with my guns, fishing gear, Bible and my dog, going to Costco and stock up on food, wine, and Charmin Ultra Soft Toilet Paper and driving to a sparsely inhabited but climate-friendly area. I am open to suggestions as to the idyllic destination. Do you have any recommendations? I'm all ears.
On a serious note, wherever you live you should be taking standard precautions right now. Do not hoard, but stock up on food, vitamins, get whatever medicines you require, and be prepared should you need to be locked down for a yet to be determined duration of time. The chance of that happening in the area you live in may yet be small, but it’s not nil. So, don’t screw around with this one. It’s best to “err on the side of caution.” This may well be the most serious pandemic-worthy risk since the1918 Spanish influenza that killed between 50 million and possibly as many as 100 million people worldwide. Word to the wise; everyone is at risk.
No comments:
Post a Comment