News about the COVID-19 outbreak has been coming fast and furious over the last couple of weeks. There's been a lot to process — some fatalities, hundreds sickened across New England and many changes to everyday life.
People are working from home, keeping their distance from others, and not being able to go out and have dinner or go see a movie. All this, government officials say, is to try to lessen the spread of the new coronavirus.
Panelist Natalia Muñoz said the public is only being asked to do one thing.
"All we're being asked to do is stop the virus from spreading," Muñoz said. "We're not being asked to go to war. We're not being asked to stop eating chocolate. It's just about 'stay home.'"
Governors across New England and around the country have really been driving the response to the outbreak. In Massachusetts, Charlie Baker has closed schools, shuttered restaurants and bars, and has been vocal about needing more COVID-19 testing capability in the state, as well as materials for hospitals.
This approach has earned high marks from panelist Mike Dobbs.
"I think the governor has shown leadership. He's shown restraint," Dobbs said. "He has a manor about him that does not lead to conclusions of panic. I would give him a real solid B-plus, maybe an A-minus."
Muñoz said she gives Baker an A, and said she's thankful he's Massachusetts' governor.
"We have a governor who is on top of this in every way," Muñoz said. "That's exactly what we need, is somebody who is being a leader and not a follower."
The outbreak is already having a major impact on the economy. Restaurants are limited to take-out or delivery service. Some employers who are closed are paying workers for the next few weeks, but many thousands of people have lost jobs.
"I think that this is a wake-up call for us," Dobbs said. "I think this shows how fragile our economy is, and how fragile American life is."
COVID-19 has also had a huge impact on schools. Districts are closed for at least the next few weeks, and quite possibly longer. Some places are trying online learning as an option for missed classroom time, and many districts are providing meals for children.
Guests:
- Mike Dobbs, managing editor, The Reminder
- Natalia Muñoz, host, Vaya Con Muñoz on WHMP
