With self-isolation and the rising case numbers of COVID-19, it’s easy to start feeling down. You may find yourself asking, is there any good news about the coronavirus pandemic? The answer is yes — there is a silver lining to all of this madness.
Many people are recovering, we know much more about the virus than we did previously, and testing is improving as well. We may even have a cure soon! Not only that, but the environment is doing better with all the manufacturing and transportation slow-down. With people supporting each other and coming together, there are many reasons to stay positive throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
What Is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is the official name given to the novel coronavirus that began in 2019. Coronaviruses are a large group of pathogens that cause illnesses in both animals and humans. COVID-19 a type of coronavirus that is highly contagious and causes fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. COVID-19 can be fatal, so speak with a health provider right away if you are experiencing symptoms.
We have come a long way in our knowledge and understanding about the novel coronavirus, since the first case. We know now that the virus spreads person to person, and that most individuals may feel ill 5-6 days after infection. We also know that COVID-19 is very similar to other coronaviruses — 79% similar to SARS and 50% similar to MERS. We know the symptoms to look for, ways to prevent transmission, and what to do if you have been infected. All of this new knowledge is being used to save lives and help others.
More Countries Are Containing The Spread
For countries that have acted fast and been serious about enforcing social distancing, the spread of infection has slowed dramatically and death estimates are shrinking.
For instance, Hong Kong and South Australia have had zero cases in the last two weeks, and Germany has had the lowest number of confirmed cases in five weeks.
We all have to do our part, and countries need to act early and decisively, and continue to maintain social distancing guidelines until it is safe. Countries that have done so are starting to reap the benefits of their extreme care towards health and transmission prevention.
Death Estimates Keep Shrinking
One of the most cited and credible sources for coronavirus predictions, the IHME (Institute for Health and Metrics Evaluation) continually lowers death estimates for the coronavirus. This is likely attributed to individual and country commitment to social distancing.
A Cure Is Coming
Scientists from all types of organizations are tirelessly searching for a cure — the effort comes from all ends of the earth. And we are getting closer. There have already been clinical trials of vaccines, and vaccines tested in patients as well. Some anti-flu drugs that are already in the market may show promise as well.
At first, scientists weren’t sure how the coronavirus spread. In the beginning, we weren’t even sure if it was possible for it to infect person-to-person. Now we all know that to be true. We also know how to slow the rate of infection — washing hands frequently, staying away from other people, and wearing masks in public have all had an important part in keeping the spread down.
People Are Recovering
The recovery rate for those who have contracted COVID-19 and recovered is growing every day. It is now estimated that many people have been exposed, had mild or no symptoms, and made a full recovery. Also, hospitalized patients are recovering and being discharged every day — both old and young.
Testing Is Improving
Tests are not only improving, but they are becoming more and more available as well. In the beginning, there was no test. Then, tests were rarely accessible. Now, many people have been able to get accurate testing done in a timely manner — which helps all of us out by increasing rates of quarantine by those who should be under quarantine.
Companies are providing support through donations and repurposing manufacturing facilities for mask production. People are creating thank you signs and parades for health care workers, and welcome home gestures for those recovered. It is a unique time to have the entire world united by this one thing threatening us all — and we will come out of it stronger and more united.
Support Is Available
Many governments are now offering financial support to those who need it most, and those who may have been impacted by the coronavirus. Individuals are receiving checks, and companies are receiving loans. There has been private support made available to healthcare providers as well. For example, free laundry services, discounted products, and free services given to those who are helping fight against COVID-19.
The Environment Finally Gets A Break
Some really good news, only made possible by the isolation we are experiencing — the environment is recovering from our destruction! There has been massive reduction in air pollution due to factories being shut down, and decrease in cars on the road. From the first three months of the coronavirus pandemic (January – March 2020), worldwide carbon emissions were down 5% compared to the same months in 2019. Wildlife all around the world are repopulating and expanding – due to absence in human activity in parks, nature and marine areas.
Self-Isolating Is A Time For Self-Growth
Many people have found the difference between social distancing and physical distancing. Just because you can’t go out to your favorite restaurant doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time at home! People are finding fun ways to meet with friends online, taking up new hobbies, and getting started on projects they’ve long put off. Many people have also started cooking at home more, getting creative with art and home improvement projects, taking the time for reflection, and even started studying for a degree online through distance education.
The Internet Keeps Us Connected
Imagine being stuck in lockdown without any internet! Luckily, we have so many ways to stay connected online to family and friends, to work, to our social organizations and fitness centers, and so much more.
This current pandemic has highlighted some areas where we need to improve in order to be better prepared for a future pandemic. Throughout the world, healthcare shortcomings have been highlighted throughout this process, and teams are springing up to make improvements, and create plans for the future.
It is true that COVID-19 has impacted the entire world, and all of our lives in ways we could have never imagined. And while there are a fair share of things to get down about because of that, there is a silver lining. That silver lining is the future.
At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone. Read More
