The calculation is simple: those in power and authority will play it very safe because if turns out to be a moderate outbreak, credit can be taken for mitigating it, or if a biblical catastrophe, they can say they did their utmost.Just go watch Predator vrs Alien: Requiem.
You'll feel much better!
There is no other possible advantageous reaction.
The governor of New York is doing just that. He is one arrogant and pompous ass. A true statist power monger. The justification of taxing people at obscene amounts lives within him. We have the potential for some of our own despots right here in this nation.