(CNN) The coronavirus emergency is fast transforming into one of the gravest political and societal challenges of the modern age -- and America's leaders are only just beginning to understand the gargantuan task before them. Experts warn that while young people are typically spared the worst complications of Covid-19, they can spread the virus to older and more vulnerable people. But there are few answers from the White House on the most critical looming challenge: a shortage of protective equipment for medical staff and breathing machines and intensive care unit beds ahead of a coming surge of patients. "Let's all be responsible and cancel things that we can cancel to really free up hospital beds and space," said Dr. Deborah Birx, a top member of the White House coronavirus task force. "You know, tackling this pandemic is a national emergency akin to fighting a war," he said.

Source: CNN March 18, 2020 04:01 UTC