KTU sociologist Audrone Telesiene: stay connected and choose reliable information sources
Posted date: 26 Mar 2020
After the World Health Organization (WTO) declared the COVID-19 virus outbreak a pandemic, quarantine took effect in Lithuania. Most of us understand that this means a high risk of getting ill with coronavirus. Among those who are infected, most will recover. However, the high number of deaths among vulnerable groups is likely to occur.
In the current situation, people must listen to the instructions of medical staff and of those responsible for managing the situation. Also, the recommendations from psychologists and educators on how to spend quarantine and self-isolation safely. Sociologists add: be sure to foster social contact remotely; have trust in the authorities’ ability to manage the situation, believe the information which is coming from credible sources.
Remote social interaction is essential
There are many suggestions out there for coping with the quarantine. In addition, the sociologists suggest: boost your indirect social relationships to enhance your emotional well-being and that of your loved ones. You can strengthen these relationships by maintaining communication remotely, using all available technological inventions.
During your days at home, it is important to think about everybody in your social network. This includes not only your virtual network but also in fellowship, kinship and neighbourhood circle during the days at home.
Those who have access to the news and information on the internet, press TV or other media may already have all the relevant information on what measures to take while in isolation. During this crisis, in Lithuania, the communication is well organised. However, not everyone has access to the information. Sometimes people do not understand the information or do not take it seriously.
Think about the elderly neighbours who live alone, relatives in rural areas, sceptical friends who do not read the news and about others.
Call, write, put up an advertisement in the stairwell of your house or make an indirect contact in other ways. Explain why self-isolation and avoiding contact is important, where to seek help. Make sure that these people are not ill. This way, you can help the most vulnerable populations to better prepare and withstand pandemic reaction.
The Italian example shows that when people do not take the situation seriously, it is impossible to prevent the transmission of infection. It is important to understand yourself and to explain to others why it is worth following recommendations and trusting what the authorities are saying.
Posted By
GSP Admin
