The Wuhan
coronavirus outbreak has been the crucial topic everyday globally as of this
moment. I am sure everyone knows what is this outbreak about. For those who are
still not keeping themselves updated, please read up: https://www.gov.sg/article/what-is-the-wuhan-coronavirus
National
Development Minister Lawrence Wong stressed that Singapore is better prepared
for such scenarios. Hence, keeping calm, carrying on with our lives, with
everyone working together, taking the necessary precautions, and we can
overcome this together.
The medical
experts have shared that the virus is not as infectious as SARS, and its
fatality rate is lower as of now. However, the situation is evolving very
quickly, which may be worse than the SARS episode. How can we prepare for the
virus mentally, emotionally and psychologically?
1.
Read
official articles and watch legitimate videos on what the virus is, how is it
transmitted and the proper precautions.
2.
Take
the required precautions, such as washing hands, watching for your own health
and seeking for medical attention if you are not feeling well.
3.
Don't
be afraid and don't spread unverified rumours. Why is there a need to spread?
Fear does not help in any situation other than making everyone
feeling worse. Novel threats raise anxiety levels more than familiar threats
and that people tend to underreact to familiar threats. Nationals of Asian
descent in France, Canada, and the US are reporting incidents of racism because
of public fears of the Wuhan coronavirus.
4.
Please
be more understanding that despite it being Chinese New Year season, some of the
victims are unable to be with their families, and hence we should be more
empathetic and understanding, rather than blaming.
5.
Show
care for people by giving tissues/ masks/ advice to wash their hands and faces,
rather than moving away from them with looks of disgust and stigma. Taking
advantage of the situation and being selfish are definitely no needed at this
very moment.
6.
Stay
aware, not afraid: Aware of people, aware of the right things to do, aware of
the correct facts, rather than afraid because of the wrong information,
rumours, fake news, over stigmatisation. For example, the New York Times
reported that businesses throughout Hong Kong, South Korea and Vietnam have
posted signs telling customers from mainland China they are not welcome. Also, Asian
students at Arizona State University faced jokes, stares and isolation on
campus once the US case of coronavirus was confirmed.
There will
be more confirmed and suspected cases surfacing in Singapore. However, as long
as we are psychologically prepared, and be very supportive during this pressing
moment, we will get through this pandemic. Being fearful, as well as being more
prejudiced will not be helpful. Hence, let us be mindful with the surroundings,
keep ourselves clean and most importantly be supportive!
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