I don't think that even the pessimists among us thought that it would get as bad as it did, or last as long. We also didn't know as much about it as we do now, such as how to prevent spread etc.
Those who don't care, and will therefore throw caution to the winds, did so last year, will do so this year, and will continue to do so in the future. The difference is that many of those already had it, and will therefore be less likely to endanger others with their carelessness.