• DO we need to live in such constant fear and to this degree – unless as a society we are unable to accept our own mortality? If this is the case we become unable to live in any normal manner and our available time becomes blighted.

The overall pattern has been falling annual deaths and increased life expectancy for about 40 years from the 1970s onwards followed by a bumpy flat line since 2008.

We can be disappointed that the earlier steady fall has not been maintained but there is no real sign of a terrifyingly worsening position.

Overall things have improved hugely; not to the extent of an unlimited life-span but the glass is certainly more than half full.

It would seem to be a good idea to recognise our comparative good fortune to be living at such a time. Previous generations would have been delighted to be placed in these circumstances.

We should obviously try to improve matters further, but we have to face squarely that there are trade-offs between quality of life and longevity and decide where we want to go. Every doctor knows that as a daily reality.

Suppose one life could be prolonged by a year at the expense of the quality of life for many years or, indeed, future life expectancy of thousands or millions?

What should we choose? This is the dilemma which Covid-19 has thrown at us. It’s uncomfortable but it has to be faced and that is not happening at the moment.

MICHAEL NEWLAND
Address supplied