IBX political and other chat, page-79

I have a very different view when it comes to this- the single most important consideration is the preservation of human life. Granted I’m a doctor and may be slightly biased but that’s my view.

The epidemiological studies are very clear- lockdowns slow the spread. If less people have the virus, then less people will die, irrespective of percentages. Have we all forgotten the absolute and utter devastation that occurred in Italy or New York or Iran?? Hospitals overflowing with patients, non clinical personnel suddenly plunged into treating patients on ventilators, cancer surgery halted, and non urgent medical cases completely overlooked.

I don’t think anyone can argue that lockdowns are free of negative consequences. Yes, some people will suffer and that is an unfortunate inevitability, but we need to have an approach rooted in utilitarianism.

I think Australia has done an enviable job and that we should be rightly proud of all our public health officials.