For my part, I don't think the media has massively helped in all this and I suspect the fatality rate will be nowhere near the level being spouted by some outlets, but it does seem to be particularly contagious and could spread very quickly if left unchecked.
Youre right about the media, The Daily Mail, and London Evening Standard, have gone into overdrive. By all accounts theres going to be a temporary morgue in Hyde Park. I think that we will cope though. We always do.
I read yesterday that there will be empty shelves and a toilet paper shortage. A lady in front of me at the Tescos till had a trolley full of multipacks. And the old guy who got on the bus was struggling to carry all of his.
Pretty sad really. But if theres a beer shortage, then I will stock up!