Would Long-Term Shutdown Be Detrimental to Public Health?

Since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic in China late last year, misinformation has become prevalent. Chinese authorities, under the iron fist of their government, attempted to cover up the reality on the ground. When the virus hit our shores, the World Health Organization (WHO) peddled falsehoods, some of which were propagated by Beijing itself. Keyboard warriors and pundits are now frequently transmitting misinformation as well, such as claiming half the country would soon be infected. It is in this environment, filled more with fear than facts, elected officials must consider their next steps.