COLOMBO : We don’t need a lengthy explanation as to why the present situation of Sri Lanka is a good example for my topic for today. Have you ever wondered how Irresponsible and careless we are? The spread of this deadly virus began by irresponsible and careless acts of people.
Well, let me explain. This deadly and destructive virus named CORONA or COVID-19 was first discovered in the city of Wuhan in China. At the very beginning all the people were not that concerned about it, thinking this might be something like rubella, small pox, fifth disease, chicken pox etc. Until China found more than 500 infections per day. That was when things got started. This virus has not been spreading exactly the way we’ve been thinking. It has been spreading from person to person without our knowledge. Day by day things got worse. As a temporary solution, infected areas were locked down. In a couple of days doctors and scientist discovered the symptoms of it. As a result, people were more careful. Yet, so many people suffered and so many precious lives were lost. Uncountable deaths were reported every day. Not only China, many developed countries too have become victims for this destructive pandemic.
When so many were suffering in the developed countries there was this one country which did not. It was known as the “PEARL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN” yes, it is our motherland Sri Lanka. When it found its first infection, people rushed to action. Their close associates were self-isolated at home. People stood up to do anything to protect their loved ones from this pandemic. They followed and obeyed the instructions given by the health institutions, and eagerly participated in PCR tests. Infections kept on rising, but thankfully only a few deaths were reported. The country was locked down for the betterment of the citizens.
Under lockdown, people spent more time with their families. They stopped depending on others and stood by themselves. Sri Lanka is still a developing country, but they faced this challenge successfully and eliminated it to a certain level. This tiny island was awarded by the WHO for successfully overcoming this challenge. Step-by-step the country opened up. Citizens of Sri Lanka, who worked abroad reached safely to our motherland. Schools and many other public places were reopened. The virus was controlled up to a certain level. After a period of distress, there were many gatherings and celebrations.
Unexpectedly, after a month or two the second wave raised its head. People were told to follow protective measures as done previously. This time things were different. None were concerned about it and so many were infected. Schools and other public places like malls, theatres, restaurants and hotels were to be closed again until things smoothed over. The concerned authorities tried as hard as they could. Despite all the efforts taken, only a few took heed. If we don’t obey and follow instructions given by health institutions, we’ll be pushing daisies in a week or two. You may understand why I mentioned IRRESPONSIBLE AND CARELESS ACTS OF PEOPLE were the reason for the spread of this virus. This time because each individual kept ignoring this virus which spread its ugly wings in our country.
If you are still asking yourself how you could help your country as a responsible citizen, then take my advice;
· Avoid touching your face frequently; especially your eyes, nose and mouth.
· Avoid hand-to-hand contact with people.
· Be extra sensible and cautious as you go about your daily lives and activities.
· An infected person and people they live with should self-isolate themselves.
· Wear a mask whenever you are outdoors.
· Maintain social distance.
Keep in mind every single thing we accomplish individually to stop this pandemic will make a large impact towards getting rid of this virus.
I pray Almighty Allah will soon let us all get to grips with this crisis, and put a full stop for this destructive pandemic.
F. Ifrah Irsham
Grade 09
Muslim Ladies college
Colombo .
