The world of Tzu Chi March 2020(Vol.120)

One for all, all for one A s 2019 came to a close, the world was confronted with the emergence of the novel coronavirus, later discovered to be the virus causing the coronavirus disease presently known as Covid-19. A prevalent air of uneasiness was palpable throughout the festive season as all eyes were on the development of the outbreak; millions around the world were restless with worry over the escalating number of cases and the growing rate at which the virus travelled across countries and even continents. We are exposed to viruses every waking moment, making us susceptible to a host of illnesses. Therefore, all parties should consider investing more resources in epidemic prevention measures and public healthcare facilities to shield citizens from the omnipresent threat of these miniscule, disease- causing “invaders”. As the common saying goes, prevention is better than cure. A society equipped with sound knowledge on illnesses and epidemics is better prepared to deal with virus outbreaks, rather than struggling to contain a full-blown contagion. The epidemic is a pressing reminder of the importance of personal hygiene – an oft- neglected aspect in our everyday life. Our hands come into contact with various contaminated surfaces daily, hence practising proper hand- washing techniques as part of our routine is an essential step in keeping germs and viruses at bay. Apart from clean hands, face masks are also indispensable in minimizing the spread of virus particles, but when in scarce supply, priority should be given to high-risk groups, particularly healthcare personnel including janitors working in hospitals or clinics, patients with severe illnesses and frontline workers in people-facing occupations, such as receptionists who have to interact with lines of customers in close proximity. Besides raising concerns over public health issues, the Covid-19 outbreak is expected to result in wide-reaching consequences that impact the global economy. It is now more pertinent than ever to cast aside our differences and work together to stop the spread of misinformation that fuels the flames of anxiety. The suspected animal origins of the coronavirus has also shed the spotlight on our consumption of meat, as well as prompting considerations of vegetarianism as a potentially healthier lifestyle choice in averting cross-infections between humans and animals. Master Cheng Yen advised, “The epidemic has compelled me to call upon everyone to adopt a vegetarian diet and keep our desires in check. Otherwise, it is hard to imagine how long the epidemic is going to last. The outbreak is intensifying. Cultivate the Buddha’s spirit of compassion and take action by offering sincere prayers for world peace and spare other sentient beings from suffering by abstaining from meat. This is the time to show our resolve through our actions.” TZU CHI 120 25 Staying Safe in Combating Coronavirus