Thread by @ProfLWiley

This is key to @EpiEllie's point in @apoorva_nyc's article: It's not that small family/friend gatherings aren't a problem. It's that the most effective way to address them is by addressing risks in other places where restrictions/supports/legal protections are more feasible.

https://twitter.com/ProfLWiley/status/1331309761099419651

When governors say "the problem is small private gatherings so our plan is to tell people to stop" they're essentially giving up on implementing an effective response. Yes, comms/guidance telling people to stay home can be part of a plan, but if it's the whole plan, we're doomed.

There's nothing surprising about most transmission happening within households/among close friends/family. That's been true from the start. But one friend/family member picks it up elsewhere & brings it home. Institutional/governmental responsibility is needed to break the chain.

If governors can't address risks in institutions & commercial establishments without financial supports from the Senate, say that clearly. Say clearly that you're doing the only thing left given the political pressure you're under from businesses & the lack of federal support.

For the public: Please stay home! Holiday gatherings aren't safe. But remember the *reason* they're not safe is poor choices by institutions & governments, not individual failures. While you're home, call your Senator & demand financial support & legal protections for workers!