Before revision:  We point out that, apart from R_0, an important quantity is the largest eigenvalue of the linearized dynamics which provides a more complete understanding of the disease progression  both pre- and post- intervention  and explains observed data . Weak extended intervention strategies (that reduce R_0 but not to a value less than 1) can reduce the peak values of infections and the asymptotic affected population.
After revision:  We point out that, apart from R_0, an important quantity is the largest eigenvalue of the linearized dynamics which provides a more complete understanding of the disease progression both pre- and post- intervention and explains observed data for many countries. Weak intervention strategies (that reduce R_0 but not to a value less than 1) can reduce the peak values of infections and the asymptotic affected population.