Long COVID: Lasting Illness After Recovery

Most people who catch COVID-19 won’t become severely ill and get better relatively quickly. But significant numbers have had long-term problems after recovering from the original infection — even if they weren’t very ill in the first place. Post-COVID conditions are a wide range of new, returning, or ongoing health problems people can experience four or more weeks after first being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.

My Unforgettable Journey at Berlin Covid Care: From Frustration to Fulfillment

As an MBBS doctor, preparing for the NEET-PG exam during the pandemic was challenging. After its postponement, I joined Berlin Covid Care in Ranchi. My frustration turned to determination after a patient's death, leading to improvements in hospital operations and staff training. Our efforts led to successful treatment of over 200 patients, and I left with valuable learning experiences.

A Memory of Hope: My COVID-19 Vaccination Journey

On January 18, 2021, the author received notification about a scheduled COVID-19 vaccination at Sadar Hospital in Ranchi. Despite being put off by the facility's aged appearance, the process was eventually efficient, starting around 10:00 AM and entailing post-vaccination observation. Mild malaise followed vaccination, but the author emphasizes the importance of vaccination in fostering immunity against COVID-19.

Crossing Borders in a Pandemic: My Journey Home Through the India–Iraq Travel Bubble

Living between Iraq and India during the pandemic meant months of uncertainty, until a new India–Iraq travel bubble offered hope. With strict RT-PCR testing, smooth online clearances, and efficient airport processes in Baghdad, Dubai, and Delhi, my long-awaited journey home was unexpectedly seamless. Even in a global crisis, safe and well-managed travel is possible with the right systems in place.

Social Bubble: Welcome Development or Social Nightmare?

Countries grappling with COVID-19 lockdown measures are considering the concept of "social bubbles," where citizens select a small group to interact with on a regular basis. New Zealand, Scotland, and Belgium are implementing or considering the idea, but its effectiveness and feasibility in densely populated nations remains controversial. The system depends on trust, potentially complicating personal relationships, and experts restress the importance of careful implementation to prevent virus resurgence.

Pandemic-Inspired Names: A Growing Trend

In an era of pandemic paranoia and unusual trends, parents are immortalizing the COVID-19 crisis through their children's names. From Sanitiser to Lockdown and even Corona and COVID, these unique names are a reminder of the challenging times. This tradition of naming after historical events is not new, but it certainly makes for interesting introductions and conversations in the future.

COVID-19 & Bioterrorism: A Historical Perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic, originating in Wuhan, China, could serve as a roadmap for future bioterrorism. The disease's impact was faster and more widespread than events like 9/11. The source of infections, historically believed to spread through air or personal contact, has been exploited for warfare and assassinations. The 14th century's "Black Death" and the 1934 Amarendra Pandey murder case serve as early instances of bio-weapons deployment. The negligible cost and potential for vast harm elevates the potential threat of biological weapons in the modern context.

Shri Krishna & the Sparrow: A Tale of Hope Amidst War

In the eve of Kurukshetra battle, a sparrow pleaded with Lord Krishna to protect her fledglings, to which Krishna suggested gathering food for three weeks. Enigmatically, Krishna shot an arrow at an elephant's bell causing it to fall. After the battle, Arjuna discovered that the bell had sheltered the sparrow's nest throughout the war, symbolizing divine protection amidst chaos.

A Global Tribute to Health Workers & Researchers

Google has introduced a series of Doodles to honor the efforts of health workers and researchers combating COVID-19. This gesture acknowledges their crucial contributions. Communities worldwide are showing support through applause and social media tributes. Beyond health workers, essential personnel such as grocery store staff and police officers are also recognized. The ultimate sacrifice of some health workers is acknowledged, highlighting the selfless dedication of those in the medical field.