What has really changed for essential workers?

In these uncertain times, it's understandable that people are more cautious. Being sanitary and germ free is especially important for front line workers that don't have the ability to work from home.

My question is, what has really changed? Hospital workers have always been exposed to illnesses, yet they happily go home to their families without a 2nd thought. If wearing a mask and washing your hands is new to them during this "pandemic"...why? As a healthcare worker, they should have already been doing those things, long before now. Otherwise, they put everyone at risk.

Grocery & gas station workers have been exposed on a daily basis as well. The main difference is that now, less people are coming into the store and more people are wearing masks, which should lessen their exposure to illness more than ever before. 

I get being concerned about contracting an illness while at work but I don't get the people that are having a fit about working. Do you know how many people are out of work, making no money, with no way to support their families? As an essential worker, you're still able to go forward with daily life, pay your bills and provide for your family. If you feel the risk is too high, you're free to take time off, quit your job, etc. Do you really want to be in the position that millions of others find themselves? Unable to out food on the table and pay their rent? 

Front line workers have always been at risk for contracting, and spreading, illnesses. That hasn't changed. What has changed is the increased use of PPE and the reduced # of people out which, overall, actually reduces the chances that a front line worker will get sick. 

While I appreciate all these people and know that the country couldn't keep running without them, I say, I appreciate you but you chose this as a job/career. You put your health at risk every day you go to work. Not much has changed. 

Be happy you still have a job and a way to support your family. Take pride that what you do is helping the economy and your fellow Americans. 

And remember, millions would trade places with you in a heartbeat. 

It's all in your perspective.