Gathering at the Holidays Could Prolong Coronavirus Pandemic-Related Hardships

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, says his colleagues across the nation are concerned a post-holiday surge in cases may necessitate more restrictions and even lockdowns—especially if the hospital capacity situation grows even more dire. Though social distancing, mask-wearing, lockdowns, and other restrictions are effective at preventing spread and could shorten the pandemic's lifespan, they exact a huge toll. The most obvious difficulty is the economic strain caused by restrictions. Around the world, workers and businesses are already suffering from closures, shortened hours, and fewer customers. Some businesses have even been forced to shutter permanently. Countries, cities, and destinations that rely on tourism are already facing economic crisis. A prolonged pandemic will prolong these already-critical financial issues and make economic recovery even more difficult. The coronavirus has wreaked havoc on individuals, families, and communities. Depression is on the rise as people deal with unprecedented isolation, fears, and other stressors. Parents, children, and educators continue to grapple with social distancing in classrooms and virtual schooling. The politicization of the pandemic has resulted in increased polarization and even violence. The pandemic's impact on nearly every level has been enormous. The consequences of a post-holiday surge could be catastrophic.