When will this pandemic end?

ScienceNews writer Jonathan Lambert reports that many experts today say that we are past the point of containing the coronavirus. Only when we have achieved herd immunity [see How Can Herd Immunity Stop The Spread Of The Coronavirus?] will countries be able to lift quarantines and social distancing measures. 

People acquire immunity in two ways: either they are infected and recovered (allowing them to develop antibodies against the virus) or a vaccine is developed. 

If lockdowns continue, then reaching herd immunity will take more time and will waste government resources that could have been used to fund supporting better health facilities and social support incentives.