Everyone’s attention these days is rightly focused on SARS-COV-2 which causes the illness known as Covid-19. At the time of writing, there have been a total of 182,407 confirmed cases leading to 7,154 deaths, as shown in this map by the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, here are 3 simple requests I have for my fellow citizens:
Get your facts right
It is said that ‘A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting on its shoes’.
That, in itself, is a lie. These days, lies travel MUCH faster than that!
I won’t even bother listing down the rumours, misconceptions, and outright fabrications that have been circulating faster than the actual virus. Suffice it is to say that if you are interested in the latest developments, then please go to official and credible sources for information. Here’s the World Health Organization website on Covid-19. And please, if you’re not sure whether something is true or not, don’t forward it to others. In fact, use this as an opportunity to educate others. Remind them that spreading unreliable information is likely to cause more harm than benefit.
Follow experts’ advice
I’m amazed at how quickly people have become specialists in infectious diseases worldwide. Scrolling through my Facebook feed is like speed-reading The Lancet Infectious Diseases, given the amount of ‘expertise’ on display.
Sure, it’s tempting to score political points by pointing out deficiencies in how the government is handling the crisis, but this is not the time.
Sure, it’s tempting to be sarcastic and belittle our healthcare professionals for not doing enough, but try walking in their shoes (and hazmat suits) for a while and see if you can do any better. My only regret right now is that I’m away on study leave and can’t be involved with clinical care back in Malaysia.
Be kind
Last, and not least, be kind.
This is by far the MOST IMPORTANT thing to remember!
We’re all in this together. This is not something that affects only rich folks, or poor people. The virus doesn’t care what race or religion you are. It doesn’t even matter whether you are religious to begin with, for this is ultimately a test for us all.
Can we be responsible citizens?
Can we follow simple rules for the benefit of ourselves and others?
Can we be considerate to other people in this challenging situation?
My heart goes out to my fellow citizens who don’t have the luxury of getting easy access to food, money, and healthcare. Those who have to work or else they won’t get paid their daily wage. Those who cannot take leave to look after their own children. I sincerely hope you will not be forgotten.
Until then, take care everyone.
Imran Idris 