With the non-stop coverage of the Covid-19 aka Corona Virus pandemic, it is almost impossible to not feel anxious, overwhelmed, nervous, panicked, stressed, ….. While some may be trying to downplay the severity of the disease, others are treating this as if the world is ending. The truth is likely (and hopefully) somewhere in between. Having watched the news and read some articles, this is my opinion, based on rational thoughts.
Attention National, State, and Local Leaders
- Please get together and create a unified message. While it may not be appropriate for every community to enact the exact same precautions, you must have the same consistent messaging about the disease. There have been many inconsistencies from our leaders, especially the president, which are causing panic and leading some people to believe this is partisan politics. IT IS NOT A POLITICAL STUNT!
- Close the stock markets. Instead of creating panic and a volatile market, just close it for a few weeks. Let everything settle for a bit and then reopen when there is less panic. Part of the worry is the economic impact of this virus and we should be focusing on the health crisis. You can remove the economic concern, which would help tremendously.
- If there are any patents holding up testing or vaccine or treatment development, removed their enforcement. Perhaps the concept of eminent domain could be used in this case to allow for the greater good.
- For those who decide to continue to gather – attention spring breakers – quarantine them like the community in New Rochelle, NY. Let them carry on at the beach, but don’t let them go anywhere else. Save the rest of the public from their stupidity.
Attention Individuals
- Take a deep breath and remember that eventually this will pass. Stress and anxiety only makes this worse. Try to find something you can do alone or online that brings you some comfort.
- TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY! Do your part to help keep everyone safe. Maybe you aren’t worried about getting sick or recovering if you do, but there are many people in your community who are vulnerable. Practice extreme social distancing – only have contact with your immediate family and avoid being near or around other people as much as possible.
- Be prepared. This means having a fairly well stocked pantry and freezer and having a reasonable amount of cleaning and paper products on hand. There’s no need to stockpile toilet paper. Even with a shelter in place you will be able to get essentials.
Everyone must do their part to help flatten the curve and stop this pandemic. Life will be different for a while, perhaps for a very long time. The longer we take to respond quickly, decisively, and with what some will believe are extreme measures, the longer and more sever the impact will last.
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