The Covid-19 pandemic has indiscriminately infected millions of people globally. Some have succumbed to the disease, while many have fully recovered to lead a normal life again.
Gauteng has seen a surge in infections, and according to experts, with the relaxing of regulations to allow economic activities, the worst is yet to come.
The 2020 Mandela Month demands that we be considerate and compassionate to fellow human being during these trying times. This year requires unity for the world to conquer Covid-19. We should not allow stigma driven by fear and despair to undermine efforts aimed at flattening the Covid-19 curve.
Stigma diverts attention from combating Covid-19. The virus creeps and pounce on people unannounced. Health workers are risking their lives and those of their loved ones by keeping the doors of health facilities open to tend to the sick. Imagine if they were to close shop for fear of being infected. Those who land in hospital cannot get comfort visits from loved ones. It is a long, lonely road which requires maturity sober mindedness and understanding.
None of us want to get infected, but should it happen, the least we can expect is compassion. The fact that people have to self-quarantine when they are suspected of being infected is a lonely process on its own.
The virus lives amongst us. Those who share their test results are brave, unselfish citizens who seek to advance the trace, test and treat approach. They should be applauded, not shunned. We need to support, reassure and comfort those in distress, not isolate and discriminate against them. It is reported that Covid-19 has had a negative impact on people’s mental health. Stigma could also lead to people avoiding taking precautions meant to minimise the spread of the Covid-19, with some opting not to come forward should they be linked to suspected infections.
While 2000 brave South Africans volunteered to participate in the Covid-19 vaccination trials currently underway, people from all walks of life continue to share their experiences about Covid-19 using #RealPeopleTalkCovid on Twitter. Let us empower ourselves by listening actively to learn about coping mechanisms. Testimonies from those who have experienced the physical and mental strain caused by Covid-19, could play a meaningful role as a tool to allay fears and assist others to cope.
#RealPeopleTalkCovid #CompassionNotStigma #WeShallOvercome
By Matlhodi Malope
