Opinion: Viewpoints on this virus

A worker, wearing protective gear, checks in a person at a mobile testing site for COVID-19 in Oklahoma City, Thursday March 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

A worker, wearing protective gear, checks in a person at a mobile testing site for COVID-19 in Oklahoma City, Thursday March 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Today, we present a variety of viewpoints around the coronavirus epidemic we continue to collectively endure.

A physician offers insights on the need to stay the nationally prescribed course of social distancing and other measures. These tactics are necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19 and avoid overwhelming the health care system, its workers and vulnerable populations, he writes.

In another guest column, two local leaders caution that people of goodwill should reject rising examples of hatred and intolerance as some seek scapegoats for the outbreak and other challenges the world's now facing.

Also today, a retired U.S. Army colonel encourages Americans to endure and power through this pandemic with the fortitude and grit that's led us to best other challenges in the past.

As always, the AJC sees it as an important part of our role to bring you some of the best thinking and insights around issues of the day.

The Editorial Board.