The Novel C O R O N A

  -  ZAKIR HUSSAIN.P

"As humans, we like to think we're in charge of our corner of the universe. 

 But now and then a microscopic entity reminds us that we are not."

            -Neil DeGrasse Tyson

A novel virus refers to a virus not seen before. It can be a virus that is isolated from its natural reservoir or isolated as the result of spread to an animal or human host where the virus had not been identified before. Due to such characters, the Coronavirus causing COVID-19 disease has made the entire human population vulnerable. Governments across the world have blocked their entire borders and have set up quarantine facilities.

The novel coronavirus on the date has caused more than 15,000 deaths all over the world. There is also a steady increase in positive cases each day. The elderly, children and poor are more prone to the virus than anybody else. India is no exception and the country has already recorded more than 500 positive cases so far with 10 dead in fighting the pandemic. Since the first report of the death in India due to the virus has been noted, the Government of India is advising the people to take healthcare initiatives like regularly washing the hands using soap, maintaining social distance and wearing masks if necessary. India has also carried out 'Janata Curfew' successfully to combat this pandemic.

India and Virus

In India, we take viruses as joke and religion seriously!

Almost there are 1.33 billion people in India. Only a considerable population of the entire country has taken the virus seriously, the rest have no idea and they seem to be lethargic believing they might not be exposed to the virus. This indiscreet condition of our fellow Indians is miserable but frightening. Indeed, our culture has nowhere isolated us. The long ques, crowded - parks, malls, trains and other public transport has become a way of life to almost all Indians. Social distancing would seem woeful to us, but there is no better way than isolating ourselves to protect us from this deadly disease.

We stand accountable

We all must collectively work to combat the virus. Educate your family, friends and neighbours about the virus. You may think that, since several TV programs are educating and telecasting government news regarding the actions to combat the virus, "why to educate them?"  but there are people who are negligent about the happenings. Try finding such people in your neighbourhood and spend a few minutes with protective gears to make them know the seriousness of the disease spread. Most of the people have decided to spend time with friends in response to the lockdown engaging in indoor games such as carom board and playing cards, this is nothing but a brainless act. Such an environment is vital for you to come in contact with the virus. Educate such people about the true meaning of social distancing.

Some people are filled with loads of fake news such as the virus is nothing but biowarfare and this disease spread is carried out by the respective governments to depopulate for the collective good of our future. They not only attract such fake news but prove very successful in forwarding it. If you come across such news, as an educated person please try to fact check before forwarding. When finding the message as untrue make sure the person who forwarded knows the grim of reality.

Suggested activities to be carried out in a lockdown

1. Spending days in lockdown will increase the stress so try meditation, read good books, listen to music and contact friends through the phone.
2. In a lockdown since our family members are the only people around us avoid debate on any subject, it may lead to an argument which could collapse the peace of mind of an individual.
3. Watch news channels such a DD National, Raajyasabha Tv or any other preferred news channels when you have time.
4. While at home you may not have thirst for water. But make sure you drink lots of water since water will aid if you have symptoms of common cold et cetera.
5. Educate children about do's and dont's in the house. They might show laziness in washing hands. So make sure you monitor their activities regularly.
6. If you have any elderly persons in your house and are suffering from blood pressure, diabetes and other such health problems, make sure they take medicines regularly as prescribed by the doctor.
7. Don't step out of the house unless it is necessary.
8. If you have money please buy any essential commodity like rice, cooking oil and give it to the poorest family in your neighbourhood. Despite social distancing, their condition of living makes them vulnerable. Your help to them is helpful for the whole of humanity. 
9. While washing your hands make sure you utilise the right amount of water since it’s scarce. Not to waste another commodity in a time of such crisis.
10. Eat less to avoid obesity.
11. Try watching the  Hollywood movie Contagion released in 2011, the movie shows the present scenario and the story plot is also combating a pandemic like CORONA.

What if you have symptoms of Corona?

• Immediately call the district hospitals, they may arrange an ambulance to isolate you from others and rescue you.
• Always have in mind that Corona doesn't kill everybody, it kills only the persons with less immunity.
• Right treatment would eventually cure you. So stay positive.  
• Please refer to authentic information like government websites. 

 Be serious and live in complete isolation to make sure our species survives.

Any important points you like to communicate, please make sure your ideas reach the reader through the comment section.

Trusted websites 

(click below to redirect to the website)

• Indian Council of Medical Research
• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• World Health Organisation

Any queries regarding the article contact

zakiryoungindia@gmail.com

https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus