Some measures are easier that others. It is important to have at least a basic level of preparedness. E.g., get sleep and eat nutritious food to keep your immune system optimal.
But, why not prepare for the most likely ones, especially when there's a very specific plan you can follow to be optimally prepared (stockpiled ppe, respirators,etc)?
(Not that I'm arguing your point. Just taking all steps that you can think of to prevent something, doesn't mean you'll actually prevent it. Being prepared for a worst case is always a good idea.)
Prepping could be making sure you have enough food to last 3 days, have an first aid kite, a plan, backup information documents in a second location or meet up location for loved ones. All sensible things your local fire department will advice to do.
You don't have to build a bomb shelter. You are more likely to run into a weather event compared to war. Don't ignore a basic prep.
The great part about preparedness planning is there is a kind of vaccination herd immunity effect at play. The more people who take minimal measures like you list, the less intensive efforts preparedness-minded have to invest into. To your example, if 90%+ drivers keep a flat of bottled water, then it makes sense to only keep a water filter at one's home instead of one in the car for long trips and one at home.
However, Just In Time doesn't just permeate our supply chains, but many people's personal lives. So the lists of what it takes to ride out life's inevitable curve balls grow ever longer.
This event is just another wake up call that we should be prepared for such an event. Having a simple supply of food, water, and other basics is essential. Extreme prepping isn’t the answer, but most people are undoubtedly unprepared for even the smallest crack in the fabric society - whether that be a virus or an weather disaster.
That's why you commit to multiple layers and types of defensive and recovery measures. Intelligence, preparation, prevention, prevention, prevention, monitoring, adaptation, more monitoring, effective response, well planned recovery.
reply