Yes, we are all doing our best. My background is that I had a family member, my mother, with copd. My children would infect her with the latest bug from the daycare. We had the worst flu in our homes, we called this covid-19 type situation with the flu or pneumonia back then. We didnt have the flu shot yet. I worked in post acute care for awhile, and yes, folks with compromised health situation are more susceptible to a viirus. Is the death rate really higher,? We didnt have social media in the 1990s to spread fearful information like we do now. I've had walking pneumonia, maybe it was covid-19 back then? New technology, scaring people in 2020.

Thanks Merry for your posts. I appreciate what you write and also agree whole heartedly with what Lioness also posted. Most members in the Mayo Connect groups have one or more serious chronic health issues. It only makes sense for each of us to safeguard our health to the best of our abilities.

As an elder with serious health issues, I approach most personal lifestyle decisions now with much more caution than before my diagnoses. Wishing us all the best going forward with the health challenges that brought us to this very helpful support group.

@merpreb, I appreciate you not wanting to pursue any type of political discussion on Connect. This is completely over-politicized (I'm hoping that's a word). Regardless of on which side of the fence one sits, while only following experts at the Mayo Clinic, CDC and NIH is a good practice, even that can seem confusing at times, as even the experts don't have 100% accurate facts about this ever-changing situation (just look at how the esteemed Dr. Fauci's opinions have changed from January until now). I think the best we can do is avoid hysteria and reliance on unchecked media, all the while practicing good hygiene and kindness. If anyone feels so inclined, may they include our world leaders in their prayers, praying for strength, wisdom, and good old-fashioned common sense and kindness.