So it sounds like, with the currently available stats, they are matching the observations that people really aren't disappearing from the surface of the Earth with any dramatic frequency above the average? In other words, COVID on its own hasn't been a statistical multiplier for the number of people who ultimately expire in a given amount of time? That's really what I'm looking for, an answer to the ultimate question of "are we responding to COVID in an appropriate manner." I agree with an abundance of caution, but I also agree with the avoidance of overreaction.
If you look back to other pandemics throughout recorded history there was an undeniable bump in the total mortality rate within a given time period that coincided with the illness. THAT is really the question I'm looking to answer. If COVID shows a similar pattern, and that rate is significant and/or evidence leads to it becoming significant, then fine - lets entertain locking things down. But if the numbers just aren't indicative of the need, how about we cool our jets a bit and get back to living our lives. I'm not an expert, and I am most certainly not claiming to be. But those who are claiming to be experts? Back up your position and advice with facts.
If you look back to other pandemics throughout recorded history there was an undeniable bump in the total mortality rate within a given time period that coincided with the illness. THAT is really the question I'm looking to answer. If COVID shows a similar pattern, and that rate is significant and/or evidence leads to it becoming significant, then fine - lets entertain locking things down. But if the numbers just aren't indicative of the need, how about we cool our jets a bit and get back to living our lives. I'm not an expert, and I am most certainly not claiming to be. But those who are claiming to be experts? Back up your position and advice with facts.