I lost one friend early in dc area as well.
the amazing thing, although obviously mitigation efforts early were un sustainable, never mind political, it wiped out a whole strain of flue virus. now we let it rip and got flue, rsv, monkeypox, measeals...... lets put it in perspective over 900,000 confirmed cases in us in 2023 killing over 75000. the worst flu season in the last 20 years 225,000 cases and 23000 dead. of course the majority of deaths are plus 60, and same year 126000 deaths due to opioids. the majority under 60. so why can't we chew gum and walk. save ukraine, save the border, and save each other from respiratory illness. sorry if this is political. i think its personal heath and safety.