Preventing the Spread of COVID-19, One Mask at a Time.

Photo credit: https://www.accuweather.com/en/health-wellness/study-on-new-coronavirus-says-warmer-weather-may-slow-covid-19-spread-and-cooler-weather-may-accelerate-it/707177

As the global pandemic brought by COVID-19 continues to spread all around the world, the threat it has brought upon to this world also continues to increase. More than 39 million have already been infected by the novel disease, more than a million of which have died. With complications arising in vaccine development, and multiple economies crashing down to unprecedented levels, our future might only be becoming more uncertain. But fear not, as we still have a lot to do that can help relieve our situation. Now is the time where we must set aside our differences and have a common goal of overcoming this battle. It all starts with ourselves, who should serve as role models for the general public who will educate and lead other people to a better future free from the risk of a global pandemic.

COVID-19 is caused by a virus (SARS-CoV-2) which can easily be transmitted if one is not careful enough. A mask and a face shield is a must when in an area frequented by other people. The observance of social distancing is also enforced in public areas to reduce contact between people. Curfews and stay-at-home orders, especially to minors and senior citizens, have also been implemented, as they are the most vulnerable. Several other laws and orders have also been implemented to help alleviate the current situation, including the ongoing community quarantines and lockdowns. However, we should not be completely reliant on our government, we should know when and how to act for the better of ourselves as not everything the government implements are beneficial to the COVID-19 response. An example is the temporary opening of the Manila Bay Beach last month, it could have been a superspreader event, yet the government still authorized it.

One important part of facing a pandemic is having a concrete plan and strategy, governments and citizens alike should have a proper idea of how the situation will be managed. Statistics have shown that having a generally well-managed and complete action plan (especially in governments) helps provide a more efficient pandemic response. This is the reason why we need to plan and think in advance for this pandemic. We must learn to think about the consequences of our every action, especially as one wrong move may cost us our lives. In the end, this pandemic is yet another challenge for us, sure it may be tough, but with the proper response and action, we should be able to overcome this.