Over 500 epidemiologists and infectious disease experts across the US and Canada recently shared their views: When will daily life resemble pre-COVID normalcy? It varies by activity, but consensus points to a gradual return.
The COVID-19 pandemic upended routines with lockdowns and precautions, and deconfinement brings second-wave concerns. A New York Times article on June 8, 2020, surveyed 511 experts in the US and Canada. Visual Capitalist transformed their responses into this revealing infographic.
Focusing on 20 pre-pandemic activities, it shows the likelihood of resuming normalcy this summer, in 3-12 months, after a year—or never.
Highlights include: 64% chance postal workers resume unrestricted deliveries this summer. Haircuts as before? 41% this summer, 39% in 3-12 months, 19% after a year. Air travel normalcy is unlikely this summer (20%), more probable in 3-12 months (44%) or later (37%).
Hugs or handshakes: Just 14% chance this summer, 39% in 3-12 months, 42% after a year, and 5% chance it never returns. Concerts or sports events: Summer resumption nearly impossible, 32% in 3-12 months, 64% after a year.
The infographic below covers all activities:
