In relation to my Twitter post yesterday, I have decided to dig deeper into this new deadly Chinese virus.
Although I initially found the article via the Kearney Hub, I’m reading an editorial done by The Guardian. One of the independent journalism organizations based out of London, which I have followed on Twitter for awhile.
I agree with this editorial immensely, considering I thought different when I originally read the Kearney Hub’s article. That’s because the Hub portrayed this as a “deadly Chinese virus,” which had “reached the US.” Just that headline gave me chills and reminded me of the new Netflix original called Explained: The Next Pandemic.
If you haven’t seen it I highly recommend watching the entire Explained series, as it makes you think outside our small individual worlds and reminds us what is truly outside our perspectives.
Much like Explained, The Guardian reminds us what to worry about and what not to worry about. Although there have been reports of this virus, as stated in the editorial, “too little information is available to draw firm conclusions about this virus (The Guardian).”
It can be alarming, considering how controlling China is over its news and social media, which in the long run is hurting the rest of the world. This virus is a prime example and the world needs to be aware of its potential when it makes it our way.
On top of censored news, the President Xi Jinping of China, stated in the article the following:
“Those who hide or delay reporting cases “will be nailed on the pillar of shame for eternity.”
Although, the President has been more open in this case, rather than those in the past, he still seems to be withholding information, such as, how many have been infected in China. In additional to his quote above we are reminded the difference in countries from China and the US, considering how China’s President speaks to their people.
As the conclusion of the article states, we should just watch closely. I am a strong advocate for hand washing, and hope others my age are as well. We shouldn’t waste our time worrying about this “new coronavirus,” but instead should be creating a strategic plan to help protect one another, if it finds its way into our homes.
That is why communication is key and helping others understand the danger of new outbreaks can improve overall preparation for when something such as the next Ebola virus.
Jasmine's Blog 
Important topic – emergent viruses have enormous possibility to bring about havoc, but it’s a rare virus that can start a pandemic. May be a good topic to think about for future writing.
LikeLike
You’d think people would just already know to wash their hands regularly. Also, it’s hard to believe that China is so controlling with what’s released with their social media yet we have a president who’s able to tweet whatever he pleases.
LikeLike