After more than half of 2020 having passed, we suddenly realize that our life has been transformed thanks to a virus named Covid-19 that after months many still fear.
During this time, I have had the opportunity to apply my knowledge as an epidemiologist and fall in love in an absurd way with a disease that has an entire planet on its knees. My little understood infatuation is perhaps due to the different nuances that COVID-19 has taught us during this time.
The Covid-19 pandemic is a historical moment not only because it is the first pandemic of the 21st century, but because it is a repetitive event. Little more than 100 years ago humanity was fighting a similar enemy, with a nascent public health and a world shocked by the First World War. This time, public health is a mature lady who shares her knowledge with colleagues and without an eagerness to gain glory is doing her best to save her beloved world population. Contrary to a century ago, we're not in a bleeding war with enemy sides, we are now faced with politicization, disinformation, and fanaticism that can be as lethal as the war itself.
On the other hand, Covid-19 has shown us how vulnerable even human beings are, and in its terrifying path, it has not discriminated social classes, borders, ages, educational levels, or races. We live in a race against ourselves, against time, wisdom, and nature itself. That unruliness to possess more, know more, conquer more; it had separated us from our true humanity. This disease gave us a hard lesson in humility, now the hugs, the family, the meetings, the simple and day-to-day life have become our greatest treasure. I also have to emphasize that it refined our best skills such as: solidarity, compassion, true communication, and empathy.
Of course, I cannot end this note without mentioning the medical aspect of this pandemic. Almost forgotten basic routines have become our best defense weapons. Washing our hands frequently, and not touching our faces along with social distancing and the use of face masks are part of a routine that interrupted our lives, but it is already part of our daily lives.
Let us continue to follow the rules so that all those who have suffered the greatest impact during the Covid-19 pandemic can resurface with our support stronger than ever. With the assurance that we will return to our gatherings, our coffee with friends, and the collective embrace that we all miss. For more information on the Miami Dade efforts during Covid-19 visit the Miami Dade County website and and some testing centers at your disposal.
I want to thank Calle Ocho News for the opportunity to collaborate and inform. Should you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me directly at dgarces@mdc.edu .
This article was written by Dr. Dadilia Garcés Mejía
Epidemiologist, Teacher Miami Dade College
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