Wendy Reyes- Paper #2

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Apr 3, 2024

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1 Reyes Wendy Reyes Professor Anthony Bongiorno English 151 19 March 2024 Impact of 2020 The year of COVID-19 The year 2020 will forever be etched in history as the time when the world was confronted with the unprecedented challenge of the Coronavirus pandemic. This global crisis left an indelible mark on every aspect of society, from public health to the economy, and even the political landscape. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, the pandemic also revealed the remarkable resilience of humanity. The lockdown was a way the government believed to stop the spread of this virus. Advocates of this approach argued that decisive action was necessary to prevent healthcare systems from being overwhelmed and to minimize fatalities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), countries that enforced strict lockdowns early on experienced lower death rates compared to those that adopted more relaxed policies (WHO, 2020). Studies published in The Lancet have further indicated that when combined with widespread testing and contact tracing, lockdowns proved successful in halting the virus's transmission and saving lives (Flaxman et al., 2020). Undoubtedly, the COVID-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on global public health, leading to widespread sickness and loss of life. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that millions have succumbed to the virus, overwhelming healthcare systems and overwhelming existing disparities in access to medical services (WHO, 2021). This impact underscored the

2 Reyes urgent need for coordinated responses and equitable distribution of healthcare resources. Furthermore, the economic ramifications of the crisis have been profound. Businesses were being shut down, unemployment rates were rising, and supply chains were disrupted. The International Labor Organization (ILO) reports that countless jobs were lost worldwide, particularly in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and retail (ILO, 2020). This economic upbringing has exposed the structural vulnerabilities within the global economy, necessitating innovative solutions for recovery and rebuilding according to the ILO and WHO. However, amidst the darkness, it was stated that there were glimpses of light that highlight the resilience of individuals and communities. Throughout the pandemic, stories of solidarity and compassion emerged, showcasing the strength of human connection even in times of crisis. People had to come together to support healthcare workers, essential workers, and vulnerable populations. Communities had to organize mutual aid networks, assisting those in need. Innovations in technology were enabling individuals to stay connected, work remotely, and adapt to new ways of living. The pandemic revealed the power of human adaptability and resourcefulness to some. Moreover, people stated that without the pandemic innovation and accelerated advancements in healthcare and technology wouldn’t have occurred. Researchers worked tirelessly to develop vaccines and treatments, achieving remarkable breakthroughs in record time. Telemedicine experienced unprecedented growth, allowing individuals to access healthcare services remotely. Education even embraced online platforms, revolutionizing the way knowledge is imparted. Businesses pivoted their strategies, embracing digital transformation and finding new ways to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. The pandemic catalyzed change, driving society forward in unexpected ways.

3 Reyes As we reflect on the transformative effects of 2020, it becomes evident that the pandemic tested our resilience as a global community. It highlighted the need or importance of proactive measures, cooperation, and equitable access to healthcare. Moving forward, people believe we must learn from this experience and prioritize preparedness to ensure a more resilient future. However, the pandemic has been stated to have also exposed the vulnerabilities and injustices that exist within our society. Stating that underprivileged areas have been disproportionately affected, further widening gaps in access to essential services. The crisis has exacerbated wealth inequality according to sources, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policy solutions that ensure a fair recovery and promote resilience. As we navigate the aftermath of the pandemic, it has been shown to bring an opportunity to reimagine our systems and processes through the lens of resilience and sustainability. Governments and institutions have recognized the importance of prioritizing environmental stewardship, social equality, and long-term resilience in rebuilding efforts. This has led to the advocacy of green recovery plans, which focus on sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy sources, and nature-based solutions. By embracing these strategies, they promoted sustainable development and mitigate the impact of future crises. The year 2020 has been undoubtedly remembered as a time of immense upheaval and transformation for some. The pandemic has tested our societies, inspiring resilience, and adaptability in others, and renewed a focus on unity and sustainability. Moving forward, some believe we must learn from the lessons of this crisis and work together to build a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future. Some use the increasing rates of vaccination as proof of the glimmer of hope for bringing an end to the crisis and restoring a sense of normalcy to our lives. Governments and public health agencies even adapted their strategies in response to the evolving dynamics of the pandemic. Those approaches were informed by statistical data and

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4 Reyes transmission rates and included capacity limitations, mask mandates, and targeted lockdowns. Advocates of these adaptive strategies argue that they strike a delicate balance between preserving public health and minimizing economic disruptions. Various interventions, such as mask use, improved ventilation, and vaccination, have been implemented to slow the spread of the virus. According to research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2021), these interventions showed promising results. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented us with both challenges and opportunities. While it has also revealed the vulnerabilities and injustices within our society, it showcased the strength of community engagement and the potential for collective action. Backed by the actions of the people like prioritizing resilience, sustainability, and equity, we can build a brighter future that is better prepared to face future crises. Through widespread vaccination efforts and adaptive strategies, as a whole people overcame the pandemic and restored social order. Opponents of adaptive tactics argue that inconsistent messaging and enforcement of public health policies have led to confusion and non-compliance among the public. A recent study published in Health Affairs supports this claim, highlighting the negative impact of political polarization and mixed messaging on the effectiveness of public health interventions in certain regions (Gollwitzer et al., 2020). Furthermore, concerns were raised about potential infringements on civil liberties and individual freedoms through measures like vaccine passports and digital surveillance. Addressing the COVID-19 pandemic requires a multifaceted approach that considers both immediate public health concerns and the wider socioeconomic effects. While lockdowns and containment strategies have successfully slowed the spread of the virus, they have also resulted in significant

5 Reyes socioeconomic consequences. Actions from the Vaccination campaigns were shown to promise to contain the epidemic, but challenges such as vaccine hesitancy and equitable access persisted. Despite facing criticism for inconsistent execution and messaging, adaptive techniques strive to strike a balance between public health and economic considerations. The complexity of the pandemic demands a comprehensive strategy that acknowledges the immediate health crisis while also addressing the broader socioeconomic impact. There is no denying that the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic transformed the world no matter what side you argue, it exposed vulnerabilities and resilience within human societies. It brought unprecedented challenges and losses, but it has also sparked creativity, solidarity, and collaboration. As we navigate the post- pandemic world, it is vital to confront inequalities, embrace sustainable practices, and foster resilient systems. By examining the paradoxical effects of the pandemic, we have an opportunity to shape a future that is more just, inclusive, and sustainable.

6 Reyes Work Cited - World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019. - International Labour Organization (ILO). (2020). COVID-19 and the world of work: Impact and policy responses. Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---dgreports/--- dcomm/documents/briefingnote/wcms_743146.pdf. - McKinsey & Company. (2021). The COVID-19 recovery will be digital: A plan for the first 90 days. Retrieved from https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/mckinsey-digital/our- insights/the-covid-19-recovery-will-be-digital-a-plan-for-the-first-90-days. - Pew Research Center. (2020). Amid the pandemic, Americans display remarkable acts of kindness. Retrieved from https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/03/27/amid-pandemic- americans-display-remarkable-acts-of-kindness/. - Oxfam International. (2021). The inequality virus: Bringing together a world torn apart by coronavirus through a fair, just, and sustainable economy. Retrieved from https://www.oxfam.org/en/research/inequality-virus. - United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2020). Green recovery. Retrieved from https://www.unep.org/green-recovery

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7 Reyes Reflection: In this project, I learned that there were many arguments for COVID-19. Before starting I believed that there weren’t going to be many sides to the matter. I believed that COVID-19 was COVID-19 and that opinions only came about the vaccines but when looking further I understood that the “sides” to COVID-19 was whether it had a good or bad impact on the way we conduct ourselves in the future. A lot of my resources talked about this pandemic and how it shaped us for future purposes. How we the people of America will take this experience going forward. I learned that although there were various sides to the matter whether we came out good or bad according to them we will be better suited or prepared for a future case. I had a position on the topic in the sense of saying that I believed yea COVID-19 was not good we lost lives, but I believe we came out better on the other side. I believe that we have gotten better and have made a huge advancement in equality, and disbursement of resources and have gotten better even though in some cases may have even taken a step backward. This topic is a very conflicting one but setting out both sides and trying to avoid my opinion helped me sort through the facts and not see it in any biased way. My position did not change I still firmly believe that the government did the best they could with what they had and dealt with all the issues like the fires, COVID-19, etc. At their best

8 Reyes and maybe not 100% what everyone wanted but with what they had they did their best and I believe we the United states and the world came off stronger and better and will be better suited and prepared for future pandemics.

Wendy Reyes- Paper #2

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