As cases in some regions continue to rise exponentially, we are forced to ask a rather interesting question. Why are certain nations seeming to fare better than others in regards to containing this outbreak? Have some governments discovered a “magic bullet” or are specific individuals somehow less likely to become ill? While studies are still ongoing, we should nonetheless take a look at some of the reasons why a handful of nations are continuing to struggle with this truly global pandemic.
The Ability to Access Viral-Related Information
Keeping the public informed at all times is one of the most effective ways to combat any type of health crisis. Some countries have been better than others at distributing the proper information at the appropriate times. Common examples include social distancing measures, the proper food safety protocols and the use of approved face masks. An informed public is more likely to adopt these and other measures. As a result, the spread of COVID-19 can be mitigated at an early stage.
Public Understanding and Responsibility
Another key issue to address is the attitude of the public towards this current threat. Some cultures have hesitated to adopt the appropriate measures out of fear or mistrust. Others simply refuse to believe that COVID-19 poses an active danger. This has already been seen in some nations within Africa. As a result, even those who may have been infected are less likely to seek This naturally increase the chances that they will spread the infection to friends, family members and the general public. If such cases go unreported, it is virtually impossible for the associated governments to appreciate the true spread of the infection.
Ineffective Top-Down Leadership Strategies
Finally, a handful of western governments failed to appreciate the gravity of the situation until the virus had already taken hold. The botched leadership of the Trump administration is a perfect example of this shortcoming. When we then take into account the spread of misinformation and referring to COVID-19 as “a little flu”, it becomes clear to see why the public authorities were embarrassingly inept at dealing with the crisis when it was still in its early stages. Ironically, some of these nations are the very same which have criticised other countries in the past for their lack of leadership during a major health scare.
The bottom line is that this current pandemic sill sooner or later come to an end. The main question is how many more individuals and cultures will need to suffer before some type of vaccine is made available. When we consider that cases are continuing to rise exponentially in some corners of the world, it is clear that governments need to work in unison in order to remain one step ahead of the curve. It is hoped that this will lead to a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel.
