i think #EpiTwitter is being guilty of this right now. yes, #'s are increasing. it is scary and it is real. it reflects the continuing failing of our government to protect its citizens. but individuals and families are struggling right now, and our shaming is not helpful 1/ https://twitter.com/Nouronal/status/1327408352788426752

literally 2 weeks ago we talked about harm reduction and empowering people to take steps to protect themselves as much as possible, and i feel like we're all swinging the other way. i'm not saying it's wrong, but i'm saying that the harm reduction values have not changed 2/

i've had REAL convos w/ family and friends, advising them about what to do. ppl are dealing w/ lonely older relatives. ppl are grieving their most precious traditions. and ppl are truly trying to do the best and safest thing possible 3/

#EpiTwitter i really urge us to not simplify our message into a shaming message. tell ppl what the safe ideal is: staying at home w/ household members. and then LISTEN. listen to their worries and fears. listen to how they describe their relationships. 4/

tell ppl simply and plainly how #'s are increasing and the dangers of traveling. and then also tell them again (bc repetition is key) the basic principles of safety: avoid crowds, avoid close contact, wear masks, wash hands. 5/

empower ppl to think about how THEY think they can maximize safety. and then, most importantly, lobby / communicate with policymakers, bc this ridiculous situation is on THEM, not on the citizens who are trying to live their lives right now 6/6