In times of crisis the first thought is always, “What should I do?”
That’s a perfectly reasonable reaction.
But in every crisis there is also another important question: “What should we do?”
Now that the COVID-19 coronavirus has reached Mississippi, we urge everyone to take necessary precautions. For most of us, that means diligently practicing good hygiene, avoiding groupings of people whenever possible, staying in well-ventilated areas and seeking help and/or self quarantining if we have symptoms common to the Coronavirus — fever, cough, shortness of breath.
Beyond those precautions, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest information about the virus and follow recommended procedures. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website is much more reliable than social media. Common sense goes an awfully long way here.
But even as we take our own personal precautions, it’s important to understand that we are all in this together. The effect of a crisis on a community can often be mitigated or exacerbated based on our shared response to it.
So what should we, as a community, do? Several things are helpful.
First, we need to understand that while much uncertainty remains, there are going to be disruptions. A “new normal” will emerge, at least temporarily.
Some cancellations and restrictions may seem arbitrary or even an over-reaction. But this is not the time to argue those merits.
We should also think of others.
Wednesday, Kroger announced it will limit the amount of some products an individual is allowed to purchase. This should serve as an important reminder: Please, don’t hoard products. Purchase only what you need so that your fellow citizens have the opportunity to do the same.
We should also live as normally as we can. That means carrying on with our daily routines as much as possible. If we “self-quarantine” without good cause, our shops, restaurants and businesses will soon feel the effect. The economic impact of a prolonged health crisis will extract a toll as it is. It’s likely that local retailers and restaurants will need our patronage like never before.
So when you make your shopping decisions, think local now more than ever.
Finally, we urge you to check on your elderly neighbors, those who are ill or those who live alone. Visiting them in person may not be advisable. With this disease, you can be contagious without even knowing you’re sick. Make a point to call them, though. If you do visit them, keep at least six feet between you.
In short, be a good neighbor.
All of us are likely to be affected during this crisis, some more than others. The least-affected should have a heart for the most-affected.
A community crisis requires a community response.
We urge everyone to embrace the spirit of community in the days ahead.
It’s good medicine.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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