It is normal to feel fear about the pandemic of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) given that we have entered into a situation that is unprecedented in the history of humanity (or at least the response to the type of virus has been unprecedented).
While the virus does not have a high mortality rate in the general population, it does for older adults and people with delicate medical conditions. Governments have moved to stop the spread of the virus and have recommended that people stay home, so much so that classes were suspended, and the CDC said we should avoid gathering in groups of more than 10.
This will obviously generate changes in the way we live, at least in the coming months. Obviously, it will also have economic implications. The CDC has asked us to maintain social distancing measures for at least eight weeks, though this time period will be reassessed.
With fewer people on the streets, fewer hours of work, and less consumption, we expect fewer cases of contagion, but also a blow to national production. It is likely that many people will lose their jobs and that some companies will close their doors due to the lack of workers, raw materials, or customers. Some of the consequences of this crisis cannot be avoided, but what we can do is minimize them. This leads us to consider an action plan for the near future.
Containment works if everyone collaborates
The idea of people staying at home is to stop the virus from spreading so rapidly. This is because if it gets out of control, the worst-case scenario is that hospital emergency rooms could collapse and then would not be able to help everyone who goes in for treatment. If the spread is controlled, hopefully this will be avoided.
As is widely known, this virus affects young people less, so it is natural for this group to be tempted to ignore the recommendations and want to go out. The objective is to convince everyone in your family not to do so for at least the next few weeks.
Ideally, only one person in the family would be the one to go out to get essentials.
It is also possible that this situation will generate some tension inside the home. As much as possible, you should try to maintain a positive atmosphere at home. While this is easier said than done, it is important to remember that it is temporary.
The economy
There is a global concern related to the issues of employment and paying bills and debts. Many people’s ability to make payments will be affected. Governments will hopefully create certain moratorium programs so that-- at least in the next few weeks-- some borrowers will not default. This will obviously depend on multiple factors, but again, this is a global crisis.
Look for information about these programs on La Noticia and take advantage of them.
Be clear how much you are paying for bills, and if the case arises, the idea is to choose what type of bills you can pay and what type of debt you can accumulate.
Faith
It is precisely in these dark moments of uncertainty when faith plays a fundamental role. Going through the valley of the shadow of death alone is not the same as doing so with faith. Similarly, this is easier said than done, and many people are going to become hopeless. Nevertheless, that despair is not useful. It will not benefit anyone. It will achieve absolutely nothing, other than conflict.
This is a good time to reconnect with our families and to reunite with our God and feel his peace, provision, and care.
For the latest local and Spanish news on the coronavirus in North Carolina, visit La Noticia .