Are you scared of SARS-CoV-2 (better known as COVID-19)? Bangalore seems scared to death about it! The Karnataka Govt has shut down malls, pubs, cinemas, schools and the like. Gathering in groups of over 100 persons has been banned even for private events like weddings.
Sure, it's serious and you need to take due care, but don't let the plentiful rumors and misinformation doing the rounds scare you! Here are some facts to reassure you. They can also help you defend yourself against misinformation.
People won't die suddenly, en-masse
As it is becoming increasingly clear, COVID-19 is less fatal than other recent virus-caused diseases such as Ebola, MERS, and SARS (fatality rate of COVID-19 is 3.9% against 40.4% for Ebola, 34.4% for MERS and 9.6% for SARS).
Elders are at higher risk of death
Persons aged over 60 are twice at risk of death than those aged lesser
Reliable help is available
The official helpline number for Karnataka is 104. Ring up and speak to knowledgeable people to have your queries answered correctly.
Believe only in trustworthy sources
Videos and messages about COVID-19 that are being spread are fine but don't believe them fully. To make sure, refer to sources such as:
1. World Health Organization (WHO), that publishes a daily
(i) Press briefing (video) &
(ii) Situation report
3. Reputed Research/Academic institutions in the field of Virology e.g. SDS Tuberculosis Research Centre & Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases, Bangalore
Note: To contact HelpDesk, call 080-26088682.
We need to triumph over every aspect of COVID-19, so be brave and ready to win! And remember this quote from Albert Schweitzer: "One who gains strength by overcoming obstacles possesses the only strength which can overcome adversity".
We need to triumph over every aspect of COVID-19, so be brave and ready to win! And remember this quote from Albert Schweitzer: "One who gains strength by overcoming obstacles possesses the only strength which can overcome adversity".
