Economic globalisation and technological progress give numerous benefits in addition to some shortcomings of economic inequality and social instability. From an infectious disease perspective, globalisation exemplifies a world without borders (Wood, 2020). Indeed, this magnifies the necessity for international cooperation to enhance the ability to deal with the COVID-19 crisis. The rapid global spread of COVID-19 is characterised as an ‘extraordinary time’, requiring the nations of the world to unite for the greater good. On a local and personal level, we too are being asked to work together for the benefit of others. Social isolation is advised not only for people's own good, but for the wider population, particularly for older people and those with health vulnerabilities.
From 24 March 2020 the UK Government advised ‘shielding’ as a measure to protect people who are clinically extremely vulnerable and for them to minimise all interaction with others (Public Health England (PHE), 2020a). The NHS in England contacted anyone in the group of extremely vulnerable people and advised them to stay at home and avoid any face-to-face contact for a period of at least 12 weeks from the day they received their letter. The Government also advised on social distancing measures (PHE, 2020b), which have now been superseded by staying alert advice (PHE, 2020c).
Public health guidance directs us all to practise social distancing, but we can and must continue to maintain an emotional closeness to others—especially those required to shield themselves. Sharp (2020) reminds us that being kind and showing gratitude toward others and ourselves is a good way to feel emotionally close. Technology is demonstrating far-reaching benefits with social platforms being used creatively, offering, for example, virtual tours, online education, exercise classes and live story-time sessions. People are discovering unique ways to remain engaged and connected through social media and video conferencing. Yet, let us not forget that the telephone can be a lifeline, especially for older people living alone who are not technologically savvy.
An adult I know with cystic fibrosis (CF), a progressive genetic disease affecting the lungs (Cystic Fibrosis Trust, 2020) articulates these thoughts:
‘There is no certainty when you live with a medical condition like CF but having clear and timely guidance from PHE and my own medical team has provided a much-needed level of assurance during this pandemic …Whilst I am fortunate to be able to work from home my family are ‘shielding’ with me, giving me physical and emotional support and their unconditional love. I will forever be indebted for their kindness, true love and sacrifice on my behalf.’
A friend in the medically vulnerable group, a retired nurse, living alone and in her 90th year, said:
‘I worry that if I get the virus my life will be thought of as not worth saving.’
Our individual behaviour is key. We must believe we have a responsibility to consider others. The pandemic highlights examples of the power of the human spirit, with ordinary people demonstrating sacrifice, kindness, resilience, leadership, creativity and effectiveness. Some vulnerable people continue to play a full and active part in life while shielding. We may be socially isolating, yet being kind to each other, remaining emotionally connected and living and working for the greater good of others is essential. World powers and individuals are being taught major lessons of the power of humanity and the need to care for each other; individualism is extinct, we are all interconnected, and all life is worth protecting.