We’re close—so close.
The Atlantic’s James Hamblin cautiously forecasts a delicious summer in the United States, teasing the stuff of many a quarantine daydream: gatherings, reopenings, travel, and hugs.
James cautions Americans, however, to not lose sight of the global nature of this outbreak. His piece, summarized below, is worth reading in full.
Summer in most of the U.S. could feel “normal.”
If cases continue to fall, restrictions may begin to lift. “Pre-pandemic norms could return to schools, churches, and restaurants,” James writes. “People could travel and dance indoors and hug grandparents, their own or others’.”
And the national mood may be one of euphoria.
“Periods of intense hardship are sometimes followed by unique moments of collective catharsis or awakening.” Think the Roaring ’20s, but don’t get complacent.
Americans shouldn’t forget about the rest of the world.
James warns: “Optimistic projections about the coming months in the U.S. can mean losing sight of a far more unsettling global picture.” According to one expert, many low-income countries may not have widespread vaccine access until 2022 or 2023.
The U.S. has an opportunity to be a leader in the responsible allocation of vaccines worldwide.
Global herd immunity could prevent SARS-CoV-2 from becoming a milder annual virus, like the seasonal flu (which kills hundreds of thousands every year). “The U.S. could build a coalition that can actually solve this problem—and stand ready to address any emerging variants or new coronaviruses in the coming months and years,” James writes.
I highly recommend reading the article. It really lifted my mood.