Take action: Coronavirus & Social Responsibility. See how YOUR choices can HELP SAVE LIVES.
About seven weeks ago, I hesitated to attend a friend’s birthday celebration.
It was meant to be a small gathering of 10-12 people, which didn’t sound too concerning.
This was before widespread lockdowns, when “virus” didn’t dominate every conversation. Since the start of the year, I had been following global news about the coronavirus closely, and my anxiety levels were skyrocketing.
The moment we arrived at the restaurant, I felt a strong urge to turn back and head home. But we went in, only to find the place crowded. During the hour and a half we were there, I felt an intense sense of dread, as if I might collapse at any moment.
I’ve always been weary of germs and large crowds, which trigger both anxiety and feelings of claustrophobia. Introducing the potential threat of an infectious disease only intensified those feelings.
As we sat at the table waiting for the birthday girl, I was surrounded by people dancing, bumping into each other, and touching one another. It’s astonishing how often we touch people close to us—playfully nudging someone’s arm while laughing, leaning in too closely to be heard over the loud music, and so on.
I sat at our table, unable to focus on much other than reminding Mark to “stop touching your face!” every couple of minutes. Then, I heard someone behind me joking, “what about that corona nonsense!?” followed by loud laughter. I couldn’t help but think: “Why isn’t anyone alarmed right now?”
It was only after getting in the car that I felt I could finally breathe again.
Over the following months, even Mark occasionally called me an alarmist. Some family members suggested I was overreacting.
“Talk to me in three or four weeks,” I would typically respond.
It was clear to us long before that this wasn’t a question of “if” a global health crisis would occur, but “when.”
And here we are.
NEVER A “GOTCHA!” MOMENT
“I thought it was something you inherited from your father. He always said this would happen. You told me, and I didn’t believe you.”
I wasn’t sure if my mom was trying to make me feel better, but it didn’t work. My dad, a fellow history enthusiast, instilled in me the importance of studying diseases and pandemics that shaped history.
We’re not extraordinary; like millions of others, we simply paid attention.
It’s one thing to read about those dreadful periods in history; living through one is entirely different.
So, no, it wasn’t a “gotcha!” moment. Sure, I was grateful that we had gradually stocked up on essentials over the past few months. Living in a semi-rural area, we often face power outages or get snowed in, so being prepared was part of our routine. We weren’t exactly “preppers,” but having supplies always put my mind at ease.
Nevertheless, I didn’t want anyone—whether my dad or Bill Gates—to be “right” about any of this. Even as I filled my pantry, I didn’t truly believe it would come to pass. Friends and family telling me they wish they had heeded my “dire warnings” does little to validate my concerns. What brings me relief is knowing that they no longer doubt COVID’s reality, especially since there are still people who underestimate the seriousness of the virus.
Just weeks ago, even the President claimed it would “disappear quickly,” while shaking hands with others on live TV. Although that stance has shifted, it still feels inadequate and delayed.
Honestly, I’m not sure what incenses me more:
a.) the fact that, despite the warnings from places like China or Italy and months to prepare, our federal government failed to act in time, leaving us without a national strategy or unified policy,
OR
b.) the lack of outrage over this failure.
As frustrated and angry as I—and everyone I encounter—may feel, we must focus on moving forward.
There’s no longer “you,” “me,” or “them.” There is only “us.”
This pandemic is reaching everyone, regardless of your belief that it can affect you.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE WE FACING?
Currently, there’s immense fear and uncertainty—and rightly so. None of us have experienced anything like this before. People seem to fall into several categories regarding their attitudes:
a.) Some have complete faith in public health departments and local officials, willingly following the “guidelines” set forth.
b.) Others may be confused about the situation. While they may not be thrilled about government intervention, they try to adapt and mostly comply with the rules—at least for the moment.
c.) Some are unconcerned, believing, “If I get corona, I get corona” and “nothing will keep me from partying.”
d.) Finally, there are those in our communities who dismiss it altogether, believing it to be a conspiracy—a notion some refer to as “it’s-just-a-flu” mentality.
Fortunately, most people fall into one of the first two categories.
UNDERSTANDING THE SITUATION
Formulating an informed opinion requires grasping the reality of the crisis. Trusting science is essential for understanding the rationale behind taking necessary precautions.
Knowledge empowers. It offers clarity on the situation. When you realize the impact you can have, making changes to your routines becomes easier.
Firstly, it’s vital to remember that we are contending with a novel coronavirus. This strain has not been previously identified in humans.
You might hear someone dismissing concerns by saying, “a common cold is a coronavirus!”
While that statement is accurate, it is essential to note that a common cold can be caused by certain coronaviruses, just as SARS (caused by SARS-CoV) and MERS (caused by MERS-CoV). These are diseases you likely recognize as being more serious than just a cold can be. Coronaviruses encompass a family of related viruses that can cause illnesses in both animals and humans. In humans, they can lead to respiratory tract infections ranging from mild, like some common colds, to severe cases, like COVID-19 (due to SARS-CoV-2). In this context, SARS-CoV-2 refers to the virus while COVID-19 refers to the disease it results in. The name elucidates itself: “CO” for “corona,” “VI” for “virus,” “D” for “disease,” and “19” denotes the year it was discovered—2019.
Since it is a novel coronavirus, knowledge about its epidemiology is limited. Despite advancements in understanding its spread over the months, many uncertainties remain. Each day seems to bring new insights.
SLOWING THE SPREAD
You may have noticed the phrase “flatten the curve” repeated frequently in recent weeks. This phrase has gained traction for a reason: it’s critical. In epidemiology, “flattening the curve” aims to slow the rapid spread of the virus. The epi curve is a graphical representation of the onset and progress of an outbreak.
Depending on the infection rates, these curves can take various forms. A steep curve indicates an exponential spread of the virus. Without measures taken to prevent or contain it, the number of infections can spike dramatically within weeks, leading to an overwhelming demand on hospitals. This surge makes it impossible to track new cases or establish infection chains. Healthcare systems struggle under the pressure, risking the safety of workers and patients alike.
The situation we are witnessing in the NYC Metro Area is alarming.
On the flip side, if a swift response with preventive actions is implemented at the onset of the outbreak, the peak of infections can be mitigated. Essentially, this process flattens the curve. As Dr. Fauci recently stated, “Fewer people infected ultimately means fewer deaths. We achieve this by disrupting the natural progression of the outbreak.” This is why many of us find ourselves in a pause mode—it’s critical to decelerate the rapid spread. If executed effectively, it can lead to significant outcomes:
The virus can transmit within small groups, such as families or friends, and asymptomatic transmission is a reality. This explains the cancellations of concerts and sporting events; COVID-19 is believed to thrive during “super-spreading” events, characterized by dense crowds, multiple hosts, and numerous surfaces where the virus can remain active for hours.
WHY SOCIAL PHYSICAL DISTANCING IS CRUCIAL
Weeks ago, it became evident that containment was no longer feasible, particularly here in the NY/NJ area. Given the inherent risk of quick transmission, the virus spreads predominantly from person to person. Most states are now experiencing community spread, meaning it doesn’t require travel to an affected area—you risk exposure simply by going outside, as the virus propagates through your community.
Containment efforts have not succeeded, and we’ve entered the mitigation phase. The ongoing objective is to slow the spread and lessen the demand on healthcare resources. Each state is applying its mitigation measures—here’s a visual representation on a map (which are largely similar)– click here. Regrettably, some states are led by individuals who remain ignorant of the virus’s potential impact.
These measures encompass school closures, cancellations of sporting events, shutting down all non-essential businesses, prohibiting gatherings, “stay-at-home” or “shelter-in-place” orders, and curfews.
While these directives are stringent, without effective and proven treatments for COVID-19, or a vaccine to prevent it, social distancing remains our best, and only, tool in this fight.
We cannot entirely halt the virus’s spread. Infections will continue to occur, but these numbers can be better managed over time, thereby alleviating the burden on our healthcare system and saving lives. Eventually, some individuals newly infected will be in communities with those who have recovered, offering better immunity. By adopting such significant measures, the government and citizens alike could potentially save
IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU, IT’S ABOUT ALL OF US
The reality is that we are far from where we need to be. These “drastic measures” still fall short. Conditions will likely worsen before they improve.
Unfortunately, we are fighting not only a pandemic but also ignorance.
Every day, I hear tales of people throwing “corona” themed parties, congregating in parks, or hosting playdates. We need to elevate our actions beyond this.
For our families,
For our healthcare professionals,
For pharmacists,
For law enforcement,
For state leaders,
For essential workers in grocery stores, sanitation, and delivery services.
These individuals are on the front lines, risking their lives to keep ours safe. They are the ones who allow us to buy groceries or access medications.
This informative graphic by Toby Morris and Dr. Siouxsie Wiles illustrates the significance of physical distancing at this time. You can also watch this short interview to see the impact one individual can create.
This is why social (or “physical”) distancing is essential. If we all get sick simultaneously, healthcare systems can’t accommodate everyone, jeopardizing care for all.
YOU’RE NOT INVINCIBLE
Initially, it was believed that young adults had a minimal risk of serious illness from the coronavirus. However, growing reports indicate young individuals falling seriously ill, including those without pre-existing conditions. In just the past week, the U.S. lost three children to COVID-19, including an infant. We had held onto the belief that children were largely safe, yet this reality refutes that notion, underscoring our ignorance about this virus.
Being young and healthy doesn’t mean you can’t risk others’ health, even if you don’t get seriously ill.
Individuals over 65 and the immunocompromised remain at high risk, accounting for 80% of fatalities in that age group. This loss doesn’t diminish its tragedy. Yet, youth doesn’t confer immunity. The CDC reports that so far, 1 in 5 hospitalized patients are young adults. Some may experience cold-like symptoms, others no symptoms at all, and some face severe illness.
It’s important to note that recklessness isn’t confined to the young. Here in NJ, amidst over 34k confirmed cases and a stay-at-home mandate, reports of arrests for violating gathering orders continue to arise. Our state government and law enforcement are pleading with citizens to comply, yet there remains significant disregard for the rules.
EASIER SAID THAN DONE
Indeed, it is.
Being away from friends and family is difficult.
However, ensuring our collective health is crucial when this situation passes.
We need everyone on board.
While some of us can work from home (or are fortunate enough to have jobs at all), others lack that privilege. Many must work in essential industries, while others simply cannot afford to remain idle.
In areas that haven’t yet activated “shelter in place” or “stay at home” orders, normalcy prevails. Yet even if you’re required to work outside your home, you can do your part. Minimize close contact with others—especially anyone outside your household. Schedule grocery runs sparingly, and discourage friends from meeting up for drinks. Stay connected, but maintain physical distance.
STAY INFORMED + AVOID MISINFORMATION
The amount of misinformation spreading alongside the virus is equally frustrating.
The situation here in the U.S. has sometimes felt like a detrimental gamble with human lives. Conflicting messages are rife, leading many into confusion while others insist that the pandemic is a mere “hoax.” Everyone is entitled to their beliefs, but we must unite in understanding that this affects us all.
Your actions no longer impact only you; my choices affect more than just me.
The trivialization of the crisis and the sheer volume of misinformation that we have to sift through to seek clarity is outrageous.
The CDC, WHO, and even the US Surgeon General lost credibility by advising against public mask use, ironically insisting they are not effective. However, we now understand that masks do help prevent the spread of the virus. Countries where mask-wearing is common, such as South Korea, Hong Kong, and Japan, have experienced lower infection rates. The rationale behind declaring masks ineffective stemmed from global shortages, prioritizing healthcare workers—but the decision was misleading.
Who can we trust? Where do we seek accurate information?
Irrespective of political views, avoid relying on a single source for information. Politicians are not demigods; they are public servants, not icons. Many governors are collaborating, which is positive. Nevertheless, witnessing a lack of unity between states and the federal government is disheartening; transparency is sorely lacking. This emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge from credible sources: scientists and medical professionals (such as the invaluable Dr. Fauci). For updated numbers and pertinent information, Johns Hopkins University is an excellent resource.
WE ALL HAVE A ROLE TO PLAY IN THIS
As challenging as it is, staying home and maintaining distance from one another remains our most vital action now. The coronavirus won’t just “spread”—we are its carriers, knowingly or unknowingly. This virus has no regard for state lines or borders.
The darkest moments often reveal the best in humanity. We will prevail, but we must remember our individual responsibilities.
The uncertainty can be unsettling. We must stay informed and take counsel one day at a time.
Some days, I struggle to maintain pace, particularly with the troubling events unfolding around us. I recognize that I’m not alone. Therefore, we mustn’t neglect our self-care and mental health during this period. It’s completely okay not to feel okay. You can contribute without being glued to the news cycle. Prioritizing your mental well-being is crucial, as is keeping in touch with loved ones. Physical distance doesn’t negate the importance of calling or video chatting to stay connected.
