Letter of the Day | COVID-19 and discrimination – a double pandemic?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

While COVID-19 cases surge, a matter even more troubling than the virus itself arises from the shadows. Discrimination is becoming more prevalent.

According to the UNAIDS, individuals suspected to have caught the virus have been deprived of basic human rights: healthcare workers are denied public transportation; the once-friendly neighbourhood is being railed with death threats; and citizens are deprived of healthcare.

The incident that occurred on April 27, 2020, is a perfect example of deprivation of basic human rights. Jodian Fearon, unfortunately, succumbed tragically to childbirth complications as a result of the lack of medical attention because of her shortness of breath, fever, and profuse sweating (all being normal effects of labour) being mistaken for COVID-19 symptoms.

Will we continue to allow our fear of this coronavirus to compromise the care of vulnerable patients and diminish the faith placed in the healthcare system?

The reports of coronavirus cases each day are certainly alarming. However, what is even more unnerving is the unknown.

While protocols and safety measures are crucial to the conquering of this pandemic, it is essential that we remember not to leave victims of this virus in exile. How can we vanquish this crisis if we do not lend our total support to those at the mercy of the enemy virus?

While the concerns and caution regarding the coronavirus are understandable, the exclusions made, and the stereotypes and conclusions drawn, are unacceptable. Will we continue to permit the panic and agitation inflicted by this pandemic to cause us to lose sight of our humanity?

I implore us today to support each other and instil forms of solidarity rather than discordance.

ZOBREANN BROWN

Waltham, Manchester