Change is the only constant in this life. Some changes are more profound than others, leaving lasting impressions. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic was one such change. It redefined the new normal. Its return however, has left us reeling and forced us to re-adapt.
Let us look at the top 10 changes that have resulted from the pandemic’s second wave.
- Work From Home, Again
Returning to a work-from-home environment has lost its novelty. The freedom and flexibility it offers is now perceived as a run-of-the-mill thing.
- Lockdown? I Don’t Think So
The government has been reluctant to impose a nation-wide lockdown. While states have imposed their own lockdown, the effectiveness of the lockdowns are in question as cases continue to rise.
- Containment Zones: A Thing Of The Past?
Last year’s pandemic saw the government establish containment zones. Entire apartments and localities were cordoned off. This time, the government is going for micro-containment, posing serious questions about the government’s attitude to the deadly virus, which leads us to the next point.
- A Chilled-out Atmosphere
The resurgence of the pandemic has not evoked much response from the public. A lax atmosphere has been observed with people still milling about in public places without necessary precautions, almost as if they have accepted the inevitable.
- No One Is Safe
During the first wave, a majority of the infected belonged to the older age groups. This time, even the younger population is not safe. The second wave has squashed all myths about the ‘stronger’ immunity of younger population.
- The Oxygen Crisis
An emerging trend associated with the second COVID wave is the scarcity of Oxygen. Compared to the previous wave, 54.5% of all hospital admissions this year required oxygen support during treatment.
- We Are Legion, For We Are Many
Reminiscent of Hollywood disaster movies where a deadly virus mutates and adapts as the film progresses, COVID-19 is doing the same. New variants have been found which are supposedly more infectious and deadlier than the original strains.
- Digital Is The New Normal
Last year’s pandemic forced Indians to go digital to avail many services. It served us well as this time we’ve adopted digital methods as easily as ducks taking to water.
- Social Distancing Goes For A Walk
This new wave of COVID-19 has not been met by strict social distancing measures. A casual attitude can be observed everywhere– a stark contrast to last year’s pandemic.
- Personal Hygiene
The education of millions of Indians on personal hygiene routines during the first wave means that a majority of them are now following hygienic practices; good news in these troubling times.
During such challenging times, it becomes important to protect your near and dear ones by adopting hygienic habits. So stay home, stay safe and don’t forget to wash your hands frequently.
