Not everyone understand today’s situation

 My Saturday night spent by reading Mrs. Sri Mulyani’s writing on LinkedIn — she is the Ministry of Finance Indonesia. Most of the articles I read are about social security and assistance — which reminds me of the Health System Development course in my current master’s degree program. And it suddenly reminds me of the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic is widening the gaps in society and exposes them further.

The virus is not discriminating against people, but inequality does.

When a vegetable seller who I met a month ago had no idea how vulnerable he is if not using a mask, even he did not know how to wear a surgical mask that I gave to him. Also, when I found out that some people who have the COVID-19 symptoms asked in the Facebook group about what to do, or herbal medicine to take, and afraid to do testing. I think we still have a long way to end the pandemic in my country. 

It worsens by the fact that after 9 months have passed, many people begin to return to their normal activities, to survive. Some people can afford basic safety kits (e.g., mask, soap, and water) and do routine testing. But for some, those basics are a luxury. Some people even do not know about what is going in the world, except the well-known Coronavirus name. And others just being ignorant about today’s situation.

The problem is everywhere. Therefore, the best thing we can do right now is to protect and take care of our closest family. Help them to get valid information and provide safety kits to prevent them from COVID-19. It will not be easy for some to ensure their family compliance with health protocols, but at least we are giving our best and not giving up. And if it is possible, we can donate some for the vulnerable to lessen their burden.

We all can through this together and hope everything goes better in 2021.