Some Lessons We Must Learn from Covid-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic that changed life on our planet may have changed all of us individually. However, we already have vaccines that have significantly slowed the spread of the virus in many countries. Although human memory is short, the most important lesson to be learned from the pandemic is that we must remember and honor our history. According to prominent medical scientists, there are also several other important lessons we should learn from this experience.
Masks Are Not as Useless as They Seemed
A key prevention strategy for COVID-19, face masks have proven to be an effective tool in preventing the spread of respiratory droplets. Wearing masks has almost become a tradition in East Asian countries since the SARS outbreak in 2003. Surprisingly, the health ministries of many countries have noted a decrease in the number of seasonal influenza cases, which is undoubtedly due to the wearing of face masks.
The Vaccine Really Works
Although many people don’t like the idea of side effects, vaccines really are a powerful tool for preventing viral diseases. Many public health officials believe that the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine will encourage people to get vaccinated against other dangerous diseases such as measles or shingles.
COVID-19 Emphasized the Problem of Inequality
Having been a problem for a wide variety of people for many years, disparities have only been magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of hospitalizations for different racial and ethnic minorities has been significantly higher than for non-Hispanic white people in all age groups. Nevertheless, some of the problems of racial disparities in the provision of health care may be corrected in the near future after the appointment made by President Biden.
Mental Health Extremely Important
Due to the pandemic and the social distancing measures taken, there has been an increase in the number of people with mental health problems of one kind or another. Forced to be in harsher conditions, people became more susceptible to mental disorders. Moreover, COVID-19 itself can contribute to more prolonged symptoms associated with stress, depression, mental confusion and other side effects.
The Importance of Human Connection and Technology Too
Forced into self-isolation, many of us have come to realize how much we need other people to make us feel happier. No doubt high technology has helped us stay connected, which is invaluable, but we all need the direct support of family and friends. Moreover, the results of some recent studies show that loneliness can cause a decrease in the protective function of the immune system, as well as some serious diseases.