As countries like France, Germany, and England brace themselves for another lockdown due to surging COVID-19 cases, life in America continues as if nothing is amiss. With the pandemic still raging, France has reported death tolls not seen since April, and Germany is shutting down restaurants, bars, and other leisure venues for four weeks in an effort to regain control over new infections. England is set to follow suit with similar restrictions.
Meanwhile, in the United States—the land of the free and home to those who reject masks—things are proceeding with alarming normalcy. As President Trump laments at his rallies about how we won’t hear about COVID anymore after November 4, it’s evident that the reality of the virus, which has claimed over 230,000 lives, is lost on many. Thanks to his dismissive approach and lack of decisive action, we find ourselves in the tenth month of this pandemic, with cases skyrocketing yet again. But are Americans altering their behavior? Certainly not. My neighborhood was bustling on Halloween, filled with people—many without masks—celebrating indoors at parties, oblivious to the risks involved.
In my southern state, restaurants operate at full capacity, gyms have no mask requirements (and many attendees opt to go without), youth sports are back in action, and discussions about holiday travel plans are rampant. Yes, during a pandemic that is colliding with flu season.
As we approach what experts predict will be a grim and deadly winter, I can’t shake the feeling that many Americans will persist in their usual activities amidst the rising COVID counts, insisting that they won’t let the virus dominate their lives, as our Fearless Leader insists. Ignoring the fact that personal choices during a pandemic can have wider repercussions, individuals seem to forget that their actions can lead to a surge in cases and overwhelm local healthcare systems.
We’ve watched in disbelief as European nations faced severe COVID outbreaks this past spring, and here we are again—ten months later—with them heading back into lockdown while Trump claims we’ve “rounded the corner” on the pandemic, unbelievably listing it as one of his achievements.
Now that the holiday season is upon us, Aunt Carol is likely to extend an invitation for a cozy Thanksgiving gathering, potentially filled with COVID risks, showcasing America’s persistent denial and naïveté.
At this point, it’s crucial for those of us who trust science to take personal responsibility and limit our exposure as much as possible. Work and school may be unavoidable, but a family BBQ with dozens of relatives (sans masks) is a different story. Every choice we make could either protect or jeopardize those around us. Let’s strive for caution despite the reckless behavior of others.
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Summary:
As France, Germany, and England reintroduce lockdowns due to rising COVID-19 cases, life in America continues largely unaffected, with many disregarding safety measures. While the U.S. faces an unprecedented surge in cases, individuals are still planning large gatherings, showcasing a troubling trend of denial and ignorance. As we approach the holiday season, personal responsibility is key, and resources are available for those navigating home insemination and fertility treatments.