“What's true of all the evils in the world is true of plague as well. It helps men to rise above themselves.” - Albert Camus, The Plague
As Delaware officials are saying repeatedly, coronavirus is now widespread throughout our neighborhoods, our communities, all three of our counties, statewide.
We have to act like everyone is infected. Cover mouth and nose around others, wash hands frequently, maintain social distance. This is not the time to let up. The stricter and more disciplined we are now, the sooner this will be over, the sooner our economy can begin recovering.
This message has to resonate as Delaware nears what is expected to be the peak of cases. But that peak won’t come as soon as possible if we all start to relax our guard prematurely.
What’s most sinister about this particular brand of coronavirus, according to Delaware Division of Public Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay, is more asymptomatic spread than with many other contagious viruses. People with no recognizable symptoms can still be carrying the virus and spreading it to others because they don’t know they have it.
This is a time to rise above ourselves to help others – those afflicted and those helping the afflicted. Healthcare workers exposing themselves daily to those infected and suffering need personal protective equipment. We can donate actual equipment or send money to health organizations so they can better afford necessary purchases. Food Bank of Delaware and other relief organizations such as Cape Henlopen Food Basket are also collecting money and food to help thousands now out of work and feeling the pinch.
And don’t underestimate moral support. There were many wet and thankful eyes along with choked-down emotions one evening last week when an unprecedented number of first responders clogged the main street of Lewes in their siren-wailing trucks to show solidarity on the doorstep of Beebe’s main campus with all those working the front lines.
Most of all, we can rise above ourselves and help others by taking prescribed measures to avoid catching and spreading the coronavirus.
-
Editorials are considered and written by Cape Gazette Editorial Board members, including Publisher Chris Rausch, Editor Jen Ellingsworth, News Editor Nick Roth and reporters Ron MacArthur and Chris Flood.
