The COVID-19 situation seems to be getting better in Singapore.
Yesterday, three more cases were announced, two fewer than the previous day. The total number of cases in the country is now 75. Thankfully, these three new cases are all linked to previous ones.
But Singaporeans cannot go against their inner-kiasiness. When there is a crisis, the only word that comes to our minds is PANIC.
There’s a reason why we cleaned out supermarkets and give everyone with a mask the stink eye.
And if they happen to be wearing a nurse’s or doctor’s uniform, then we avoid them like the plague.
Newly-Released Comics By NUS School of Medicine Remind S’poreans Not To Ill-Treat Healthcare Workers & See Doctor
This is why the NUS School of Medicine created a series of comics to remind Singaporeans to act rationally and graciously amidst the COVID-19 epidemic.
The university uploaded the comic strips in a Facebook post.
As you know, some people have been avoiding healthcare workers on public transport, and some private-hire drivers have also been reluctant to pick them up after their night shifts.
Uniform Blues
One of the newly-released comics shows what healthcare workers have to go through on a daily basis, and how our paranoia just makes their lives more difficult.
Titled “Uniform Blues”, the comic shows how healthcare workers have to observe strict hygiene protocols which ensures that they won’t come into contact with the deadly virus.
But even after all the careful removal of masks and gloves and hand-washing, they still get treated like diseased beings when they leave their hospitals.
Is this really rational? Yes, they have more close contact with patients with Covid-19, but there are protocols in place to minimize their risk of contracting the illness.
Plus, shouldn’t we be applauding them for their work? They’re out there treating those who have contracted the disease while we’re lying down at home constantly feeding our paranoia with false WhatsApp messages.
As Dr Dale Fisher says: “Don’t be afraid of them. Instead, show them appreciation”.
Two Other Comics
The university also released two other comics, titled “Flu Go Where” and “To Mask or Not To Mask?”.
“Flu Go Where” advises Singaporeans to see a doctor early if we experience any COVID-19 symptoms to protect those around us. It also encourages good hygiene.
“To Mask or Not To Mask”, repeats the sentiment of experts in the country about who should wear masks; if you’re well, there’s no real need to wear a mask. But if you’re feeling sick, then you should mask up when you leave your house.
These comics remind us to be rational and kind to others at a time when it is so easy to panic. Remember, panicking achieves nothing. All you have to do is practice good hygiene, listen to the authorities, and be kind to others.