Why does everyone think this is political? And which side does it benefit? I seriously can't tell. At the very least, people should put aside their political beliefs for a minute and consider what they can do for their neighbors, communities, country, and the world. That's true for any time of crisis, whether it's a tornado or disease. Have some empathy and do something to help if you can, especially if it's as simple as washing your fucking hands.
I'll also just say I don't really understand the tongue-in-cheek comparisons to past infections. Those diseases didn't have devastating effects for real people? Shouldn't we be applauding the medical community that was able to prevent those diseases from becoming much worse? Shouldn't we also probably listen to the things the same people are saying now about this disease?
What sort of numbers do you need to see before you start associating those numbers with people you care about? It's OK to be at least a little concerned and consider what you can do to help prevent the spread of a disease that may have a devastating effect on the people of certain populations and their families.
I think everyone's fear needs a little balance right now. You probably shouldn't go out and jam on pinball for 3 days and then visit mi-ma in the old folks home. And you also shouldn't be buying toilet paper in anything other than a normal fucking quantity.