[Carth]

I think the phrase "never as bad as it seemed" could well be trotted out eventually, but only by those who 'luckily' don't live in large cities and/or areas that had bad outbreaks.

Although there have been deaths and serious illness in my locale, it seems to have given a wide berth to family, friends and acquaintances.

In larger more populated areas it has sadly been an absolute nightmare for many.