I live in a place where when 20% of the population was vaccinated, everyone stopped wearing masks. masks are a conspiracy from the government. Beaches are packed. Hospitals are full. Most of the states around here are in a state of emergency and they are calling up military doctors since there are no beds left at all. We’re about to have more cases than we ever have. There is no changes in offices, people drive to work in gridlock. They have conferences where people pack themselves in tightly in poorly ventilated rooms. Others argue if covid is real.
This is the southern US. Americans love covid. We embrace it. It’s a sign of strength.
Btw, this may sound sarcastic, but I assume you, it actually is not. It is not ridiculous. I remember in the summer of 2020 when the story was “when you feel comfortable” about going out, and not if it’s safe or smart, I thought that countries like China and New Zealand are going to have issues because even though they eradicate the virus, countries like mine where they love the virus will ruin all of that work.
I understand the issue with Australia is shipping vessels have sick crews, and (at least last year) quarantine violators). In Australia they have “sovereign citizens” that defy all health mandates and fight with the police.