Yes things seem dire, but there are actually a lot of reasons to hope that we’re going to get through this. Humanity has come a long way over the millennia, and we’ve never been in a better position to fight a global pandemic. Here are four reasons to hope.
China’s miraculous efforts
China houses 1 in every 6 people on this planet. Just 6 weeks ago China had 4000 new cases in one day. Now, for 3 days they have reported no cases of internal transmission and they only have to worry about the rest of the world bringing it in. China proved this thing is not only controllable, but it can be decimated quickly and completely. This is nothing short of a miracle, and should give us great hope. The west should swallow their pride and look to China for advice and the way forward.
Summer is coming!
90% of the world’s population lives in the northern hemisphere. Europe, the biggest problem zone has moved into spring. For the next 3 months it’s getting hotter and hotter there which is ideal. There’s no question that hotter weather makes it harder for the virus to spread. Summer alone isn’t going to solve the problem, but it could be just what we need to turn the tide.
Promising Medication research
Initial medication trials have been more promising than for previous viral outbreaks. These medications won’t cure the virus, but could greatly reduce transmission and mortality rates. We have to be cautious, as randomized controlled trials haven’t been completed, but it’s possible that within a few weeks effective treatments could be disseminated around the world.
The vaccine will happen
A Vaccine isn’t going to help us int the near future, but even if we fail to control the virus this year, by early next year the vaccine should save us. Over 20 vaccines are in development, and early human testing has already started. Once we vaccinate the world, it’s likely we won’t have to worry so much any more.
Keep loving amidst both hope and fear (an encouragement)
Hope is important, but it’s even more important in this stressful time that we continue to love each other every day, through both kind words and kind actions. Remember that every time we wash our hands, we love our fellow human.
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
Ugandapanda 
Thank you Nick. I value your opinion and this is encouraging (except for the summer bit 😉). Myriam
Thanks Myriam! Yeah for New Zealand it’s not ideal that we are in the opposite situation. Thinking of you, and keep in touch :).
China, South Korea and Russia have controlled their outbreaks and done so through extensive testing and detailed contact tracing. It took effort.
Sadly in the UK the government is extending a similar effort on managing the consequences of not introducing extensive testing and contact tracing. They could change now but it is clear they will not. It is a shame and very frustrating
This is awesome Nick! Are you guys in Uganda at the mo?
Definitely. We are here, and I (Nick) am putting a lot of thought and effort into how to manage coronavirus in our health centers..
Thanks Nick! It’s hard to see reasons to hope when we’re just entering the start of it in NZ, but you’re right that it’s kinda miraculous how well China had done. Thinking of you as you prepare your health centres to face this.
Yeah understand that completely. Thinking of all you people while we prepare here. Love you Rowena!
Thanks, Nick & Tessa for your words of encouragment. We’re in lock-down here, tho I broke curfew for a necessary doctor appt & pharmacy visit for asthma meds. Skies are clear, pollution down. Birds are singing, water’s less polluted. God is allowing this time of reflection and a ‘stay’ on our wrecking of His creation. May He keep you storng and healthy as you serve Him. Love & prayers, Rose
Thanks Nick for your analysis, very good points to digest as usual and best wishes to the staff at Michan health centre
Thank you Martin appreciate it!