I am seriously seeking inputs to help me understand the way some people view the covid-19 pandemic, that is, that covid is no worse than the seasonal flu. I am very interested in opinions that challenge my viewpoint, but, please don't respond with any comments that even hint at politics or references to political figures. That's not what this post is about.

How you judge the severity of the threat is a critical starting point for any discussion of the need for and value of countermeasures. I personally believe that the covid-19 threat is to be taken very seriously, especially by old folks like me, and that it is a much greater concern than the flu. I base this on my understanding of the following differences between covid-19 and the flu:

(a) Covid-19 is much more contagious than the flu
(b) Covid-19 is much deadlier than the flu
(c) Covid-19 survivors may have serious long-term health complications whereas flu patients generally don't
(d) We have vaccines for the flu but, at this time, none for covid-19

So, if you don't agree with my position and underlying rationale regarding the severity of the covid-19 pandemic, would you please tell me why you disagree?

If you agree with me, supporting (civil and non-political!) comments would also be of great interest.

Thanks!