Getting ready for the possibility of major disruptions is not only smart; it’s also our civic duty

“ Many are trying to stock up on masks, and many places have already run out—giving us a taste of what it means not to flatten the curve. If everyone gets masks all at once, there is just no way to keep up. However, don’t worry if you cannot find masks; those are most important for health care workers. Masks are useful for protecting others from your germs and also for making it harder or reminding you not to touch your face. For non–health care people, washing your hands often, using alcohol-based hand-sanitizer liberally...

Getting ready for the possibility of major disruptions is not only smart; it’s also our civic duty

“ Many are trying to stock up on masks, and many places have already run out—giving us a taste of what it means not to flatten the curve. If everyone gets masks all at once, there is just no way to keep up. However, don’t worry if you cannot find masks; those are most important for health care workers. Masks are useful for protecting others from your germs and also for making it harder or reminding you not to touch your face. For non–health care people, washing your hands often, using alcohol-based hand-sanitizer liberally...