Author Archives: zniss

How South Korea’s COVID-19 exit strategy is proving to be efficient

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South Korea’s Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) reported no new domestic Coronavirus cases for the first time since February.

Out of the total 10,765 cases recorded, four new imported infections were reported – all of which were tested and tracked in the airport. Overall, 1,065 were imported cases. Among these cases, 9,059 have been discharged with a total of 247 deaths so far.

The health authorities also revealed that no local transmission of the infection occurred during the parliamentary election this month – where strict safety measures were in place for voters.

So, what makes South Korea’s COVID-19 exit strategy more efficient?

Watch our video to find out how the nation has tackled the pandemic.

Social Distancing is a Social Project

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The facts, the do’s and the don’ts

As the government renews its plea in the fight against COVID-19, are the measures in place encouraging a positive change?

The UK government has highlighted that critical weeks lie ahead with ‘absolutely no room for complacency’ at this time. As well as this, the NHS has been promised ‘life-saving equipment, testing strategy and contact tracing’.

Recent reports highlight that the government is developing an app to ensure accurate information is spread regarding the pandemic and how the UK is handling it.

Britain has also ordered 10,000 ventilators – of which the first batch will be delivered to the NHS next week.

Cabinet office minister Michael Gove told reporters that: “This weekend the first thousands of new ventilator devices will roll off the production line and be delivered to the NHS next week, from there they will be rapidly distributed to the front line.”

A doctor at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kings Lynn commented that: “There are new cases everyday. There have been talks of deploying doctors from different specialities to treat COVID-19 patients. Although, with the lack of protective equipment at the moment it is proving to be a difficult task to set in motion.”

Sources: NHS, UK GOV, The Next Web, Reuters

COVID-19: The urgency to ‘flatten the curve’

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What do we mean by ‘flatten the curve’?

When dealing with a pandemic like COVID-19, the ultimate goal is to stop the overall spread of the virus. In order to do so, the slowing down of the spread is a critical phase in achieving this. Hence, the social distancing measures in place across the world.

To ‘flatten the curve’ means to reduce the growth in the number of cases – giving medical professionals, institutional bodies and government officials more time to prepare and respond. As well as this, it accommodates for effective planning in a stressful situation as such.

For hospitals to function – doctors must be readily available to treat patients. However, with an influx of patients they must quickly adapt to the escalation of cases. Slowing the spread of COVID-19 cases through measures such as social distancing will not only save lives but ensure that we continue to progress ahead.

What do the curves on the graph represent?

‘Flatten the curve’

The curves represent the number of cases and how they are increasing/decreasing over time. A steep, higher curve signifies that cases are increasing fast. The lower curve indicates that cases are emerging slower, and that the virus is not spreading as faster.

By keeping the curve low, it allows for added time and preparation in controlling the spread of the virus.

How will social distancing determine the outcome of this pandemic?

The spread of the virus depends on how contagious it is, who is more vulnerable to it and how fast it impacts our immune systems. According to the World Health Organisations (WHO) COVID-19 is an ‘infectious disease’ primarily spreads through ‘droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose’ when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Seasonal flu has a lower fatality rate because people have been vaccinated against the virus or developed immunity. Coronavirus, on the other hand, does not have a vaccine and is known to have vigorous symptoms. As a result, people are more vulnerable to it.

Social distancing measures such as self-isolation and quarantine will decrease chances of transmission and consequently the spread of the virus.

The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine estimated that prior to the lockdown – one positive person would infect 2.6 other people. However, after social distancing measures were implemented – the figure reduced to 0.62. This means that the virus is being detained and should eventually burn out given the measures in place are strictly followed.

How should we go about this situation as individuals?

NHS guideline

In these uncertain times, it is natural to be overcome with anxiousness and self-awareness. Essential workers, doctors and patients are battling a wide-scale pandemic that is challenging day-to-day routines. As individuals of society, we have the duty to protect the most vulnerable of people amid this pandemic. By staying home, maintaining our hygiene and social distancing – we can encourage a safer, less disastrous outcome.

Institutions face structural changes to support students amid the COVID-19 pandemic

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As the UK government begins to up its efforts in impeding the growth of the COVID-19 pandemic, institutions have been forced to introduce structural changes.

Multiple universities have moved to online classes through means of digital platforms such as Blackboard and Canvas – sites prominently used among institutions across the UK.

Blackboard CEO Bill Ballhaus took to its official site with a notice, highlighting their plans to support institutions across the UK during the outbreak. He ensured that Blackboard will continue making online learning feasible for both staff as well as students.

According to the statement, the number of online users ‘has doubled every day’ and the platform is working diligently to keep up with this unprecedented surge.

To meet service user needs, Blackboard’s pro-active measures include activating ‘cross-functional response teams’ to ensure the functioning of the platform.

Universities have introduced responsive measures such as online libraries to make academic sources and books accessible to students.

Nottingham Trent University recently announced that it will waive accommodation fees for students who have the left the city during the nation-wide lockdown. Students who have vacated their residence provided by the university and are not returning will no longer be required to pay rent.

In a statement, the professor’s vice-chancellor Edward Peck said: “At every stage in this national crisis Nottingham Trent University has been committed to following Government and PHE advice whilst ensuring that the interests of our students are always paramount in every decision that we take.”

“We understand that many of our students rent from private third-party providers, both purpose-built student accommodation and houses in multiple occupation. NTU is not able to make a unilateral decision on behalf of our students regarding accommodation fees charged by these providers.”

PhD and master’s students have also signed an open letter urging research councils to publish a plan outlining the additional financial support required for postgraduate students.

Due to fieldwork at halt and university labs and libraries being shut, many are unable to complete their research projects.

March is a typically active period of the academic year – with lecture theatres packed and assignment deadlines approaching. This year, there is an unprecedented silence.

Users took to social media sites expressing that they are ‘mentally tapped out’ and ‘paralysed’ from the on-going situation.  

A PhD student at the University of Westminster stated that: “The assumption to go about academic responsibilities in one’s home has been readily taken advantage of. For many, staying at home brings forth added care responsibilities.”

“At present, many of us are taking on this additional workload to help us survive in the face of a virus that knows no boundaries. If these changes that are being introduced are causing more stress to students, then perhaps it’s time to reorganise the education system.”

To learn more about the government response and information provided by universities regarding COVID-19, visit this webpage.

CoronaHack: Self-quarantining has introduced creative ideas for time pass

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The coronavirus, or COVID-19 which has now enveloped across the world has left many of us in a state of uncertainty and a relentless need for distractions. As countries begin their collective efforts to self-quarantine, people have begun to entertain themselves in remarkably amusing ways.

1. Missing friends or family while social distancing? Have an online Netflix Party together

A video posted on TikTok soon spread across other social media channels – guiding users on how to livestream Netflix content together whilst exercising social distancing. It is a fast and simple set-up, all you need is a good connection and a group of people willing to join.

2. In these tough times, balcony-singing Italians inspired solidarity across the world

And in some places, it didn’t:

3. Travel plans cancelled? Compensate by introducing these creative alternatives

Compensating for upcoming plans that are now cancelled can be tough. Unprecedented cancellations and an abrupt stop to our daily routines is challenging, but the most we can do is to respect guidelines given by health and government professionals and hope that better days lie ahead.

Breaking news over breaking news, especially when fairly grim notifications are all that pop-up can be mentally draining. Take a break, relax and invest your time into something else. Perhaps those travel funds can be an exchange for something you never knew you needed. Maybe a drawing tablet, a gaming console, a piano – whatever alternative that may offer you some relief.

4. Take up a free online MOOC course ranging from Architecture and Design to Literature and Science

MOOC – also known as a ‘Massive Online Open Course’ is a website that includes free online courses from top universities and institutions such as Harvard and Microsoft in a variety of subjects ranging from business, arts, medicine and literature. Simply choose an area of expertise you want to explore and dive into an intellectually stimulating experience.

You’ll not only be distracted – but you may find the commitment you were craving for and fulfil certain educational needs.

5. Read the books you never had time for, kickstart a project you always wanted to

Amid the panic and hysteria surrounding the virus – an unsettling fear and uneasiness is bound to overcome many of us. One begs to ask the question of how long this period in life may last. Every day of this virus – which we are not entirely aware of and how fast its spreading – starts to feel like a Sunday on repeat. It is natural to be worried for the well-being of yourself and many others.

“There are more things … likely to frighten us than there are to crush us.”

A Stoic’s key to peace of mind – Seneca’s 2,000-year-old antidote to anxiety

Chin-up, read a book or kickstart that project still on hold. If we abide by the necessary instructions and ensure the protection of one-another, this too shall pass.