By Celia Zevon
Staff Writer
COVID-19 has caused over 9,000 Sacred Heart students to participate in online classes, but an unanticipated result is the increase in community support.
The disease has not directly affected myself or anyone I know; however, it is affecting many as over 100,000 cases emerged in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment,” said the World Health Organization.
Since returning, myself and many others have spent 2 weeks at home, social distancing and taking the important sanitary precautions.
With classes being online, it is difficult to motivate myself to complete my work due to the many distractions. The experience of doing classes from home is unique and will take some adjusting to.
However, my main concern is the growth of the virus and how it will not only affect my life, but many others lives too. It is important to make the best of the situation, while maintaining practices that will keep yourself healthy.
This pandemic is bringing communities together despite social distancing practices. My neighborhood development in Rhode Island decided to all put a different stuffed animal in our windows to create a “safari.” This encourages kids to get fresh air, be active, and make the most of this experience.
Meanwhile in New Jersey, a woman in sophomore Megan Murphy’s community is purchasing loaves of bread and leaving them on her doorstep for those in need.
“I think it is a selfless act in times of need. The act of kindness shows that there is still hope in humanity,” said Murphy.
During this time, communication has become very important. In my home we spend more time together baking, going on hikes, watching movies, and eating our meals together, something I did not have the privilege of doing at college.
It is nice to see communities and families come together during this time; however, it is important to keep in mind social distancing practices.
Hopkins Medicine said, “Along with those essential steps, practices such as social distancing, and self-quarantine and isolation when appropriate can slow the rate of infection in a city, town or community. The pandemic can seem overwhelming, but in truth, every person can help slow down the spread of COVID-19.”
