I don’t pretend to have many answers but it seems to me that the handling of this pandemic could have been done in a better way. Certainly, in this case, the older population and those with physically vulnerable conditions should be under strict sequestering.
But, in my opinion, the last to sequester, and the first to return to school and normalcy, were the children. Sitting in front of a computer for hours on end was harmful physically, mentally and spiritually. Being away from the outdoors and from friends is equally harmful. Strong, young teachers are essential workers, making sure there is good ventilation and good hand washing, etc., in the schools – and plenty of recess.
And, instead of blanket shutdowns, they should be tailored to each particular area of the country according to how prevalent the disease is, and the death rate is, in the area. Our country needs to be prepared for massive, free testing so authorities can accurately judge the nature of the problem areas.
There will be other threatening viruses, especially as we encroach on natural areas throughout the world and the overall vibrancy of nature (including ourselves!) is compromised by greenhouse gases, etc.
We have to react smarter and find ways to keep the economy in a workable condition during these times.
Anne BowlerCortez
