The Corona Virus Pandemic

I won't pretend to understand the scientific elements of contagion or global pandemics. I know something about biology (thanks to my almost otherwise useless degree in exercise science) and even had an argument the other day with Patrick about science. Again, I was able to tell him that I am in fact a scientist and that I studied science in college. Still, I know about as much as the average Jo about the current pandemic. Here's been our family experience-

In December there was an outbreak of a new virus in China. The virus spread quickly and was particularly deadly to elderly populations. The symptoms were a high fever that lasted quite a while and some respiratory issues...along with a few other variable symptoms. Things seemed to carry on as normal until just after Chinese New Year when most of my students remained home and did not return to school. The country appeared to be on lock down to try to prevent the spread of this virus.

I've continued to teach my students but remained perplexed why everything was shutting down when it seemed like healthy adults and children were not at risk. Additional countries began experiencing the infection and after some cruises had outbreaks and some US citizens were diagnosed, now we're all practicing "social distancing" and in many cases, self quarantines in our homes.

For several weeks the stores have been running out of toilet paper and water. It's puzzling why people are rushing off to stock up on these items when the quarantine doesn't mean you're not able to get TP. If everyone cooled off on that, you could still get TP delivered through grocery delivery services but the problem is now, there's no TP to be found. It's wild.

I suppose people are worried that all services might stop- mail delivery and restaurants. It might not be that far fetched actually given that most of the schools are shutting down for the next two weeks along with the cancellation of many performances, athletic events, and other social gatherings. The Salt Lake County library system has shut down for the rest of the month (I have books due soon so...I wonder how I'm supposed to get those back). The governor has requested that we not host or attend any events or gatherings with more than 100 people. Thus, my auditions for Matilda were cancelled until further notice and Patrick's preschool will stop for the next two weeks too. Scott will still be going into work and production people are still planning to go in. All office and administrative type people will be working from home. Many companies are having their employees work from home. I have 3 friends who were accepted to and just began the Disney College Program who are being sent home because Disney Land and Disney World have both closed until further notice!!! The NBA has called off March Madness. It's interesting to ponder the potential economic impact of this virus. We shall see what the coming days and weeks and possibly months bring.

Me and my girlfriends did stock up on some food to make freezer meals. I feel guilty about it now because we didn't NEED those items right now. We essentially "took" them from others that may have needed to purchase them for this week's groceries. We do have a bunch of food in our freezer now. My family will not be going hungry or going to the store for the next while. I've offered to help anyone in my social circle who may be struggling so, maybe someone will take me up on it and I can deliver a freezer meal to someone who needs it. oy. This shiz is cray.

In the meantime, this extrovert is going to have to get creative in order to not lose my mind being trapped at home so much. Wish us luck....although, this blog is for my posterity so, you'll be reading this long after the event so...I hope you're on the edge of your seat reading this! I'll let you know what happens next. haha.