Letter to the editor: Shutting down not way to deal with virus

Coronavirus has caused huge numbers of small businesses here in Pittsburgh to close. Inventories are spoiling, families are being torn apart and countless other disruptions have overwhelmed our society.

We cannot shut down our country every time there is a virus outbreak. We have thousands of interlocking parts that must all work together to sustain our lives. We can’t just unplug that vast network and wait two years for a virus to pass. If we do, our country will break apart. The only way to defeat a virus is to go into the valley and then back up the mountain.

Trying to make sure nobody gets a virus is like trying to catch all the raindrops before they hit the ground. It is not possible.

Shutting down the country will bankrupt our nation and destroy our way of life. Gas will run out, and food will disappear. No heat, light or water will be in our homes. Sanitation and garbage collection will collapse, communications will cease and law enforcement will be impossible. Social unrest, riots and cities being set afire will follow.

Medicines will not be available, and hospitals will cease to function. Out of this will come disease, injuries, medical emergencies, and death that will make covid-19 look like a church picnic by comparison.

Jay Londino

Shaler