An epidemic is defined as “an outbreak of disease that spreads quickly and affects many individuals at the same time.”
The media, originally a vital democratic pillar, has deteriorated into sensationalism, prioritizing views over truth. This shift is evident in horrific coverage of tragedies, like the exploitation of vulnerable communities and the failure to provide stories of resilience. Journalism must refocus on compassionate communication, showcasing hope and recovery alongside despair.
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.
The COVID-19 pandemic unveiled the struggles of India's invisible migrant workforce, forcing millions to undertake perilous journeys back to their rural homes as cities ground to a halt. This human exodus highlighted systemic neglect and inequity faced by daily wage earners. As the nation reflects, there’s an urgent call for reform that prioritizes the dignity and welfare of these workers, ensuring their visibility and protection in future policies.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Spanish flu pandemic of 1918 infected a quarter of the world's population, with a death toll of 50-100 million. Social distancing during the pandemic highlighted its importance. Today, social distancing aims to reduce interactions and slow the spread of infections. Historical practices and proven scientific principles support this approach. Technology enables us to stay connected while adhering to public health guidelines. It is a collective responsibility to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect vulnerable populations.
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped daily life, prompting heightened hygiene awareness. For those with OCD, excessive hand washing and contamination fears can intensify. The constant news and social media updates can exacerbate anxiety for all. Behaviors once seen as extreme are now normal. Public health messaging may unintentionally reinforce obsessive behaviors. It's crucial to balance precautions with mental well-being and offer compassion and support for those struggling with OCD.
