John, there is a very basic formula for pathogens that all of us in the study of microbial disease recognise. The balance between health and disease of an individual depends on three essential variables. The virulence of the pathogen (its pathogenicity), the dose of the pathogen the individual is exposed to. Obviously the larger the number of exposure the greater chance of disease. Countering these two is the resistance of the host. This can obviously include immunity (innate and acquired) and things that assist in overcoming exposure, therapeutics, passive antibodies (eg regeneron) antibiotics or antivirals. Vaccines play a role prior to exposure.
I am hopeful a vaccine will arrive, likely some time next year and it confers good immunity, is widely distributed and the populations of the world derive much needed relief.
Unfortunately there is much we do not know, scientists generally appreciate this and modifying existing dogma is generally the norm. Most involved in science appreciate this but it can be hard for the general public to appreciate that "experts" are frequently wrong but hopefully provide evidence based advice. There is a balance between the general public trust in science with the realisation that we don’t know everything. Add to that the "spin" invariably applied by the media to gain a greater audience.
Mr Crow: thanks for the response.
While I was aware that you are a real "man of science ", as opposed to our President,, did not know that this is your specific field of study. ( Unlike the political hack Dr Atlas, whose specialty is...radiology. Ha!)
If I understand correctly, you seem to be suggesting that therapeutics are helpful, but merely a ( minor ) stopgap when looking " big picture". Until an effective - and safe vaccine is developed, the U.S., especially, and the world, in general, are in a very bad place.
