Fighting Covid-19 requires social solidarity and humane policies

Countries across the globe have instituted radical measures in the fight against the novel coronavirus, Covid-19, to create physical distance: closing schools; shuttering shops and restaurants; asking families to barricade themselves indoors; securing their borders. As a public health professional, I strongly support measures that encourage social isolation, and fully trust the guidance from experts who have modeled the consequences of inaction. Having spoken to emergency room doctors bracing for the worst, I know that social isolation, however painful, is necessary to safeguard the integrity of our healthcare system and save lives. Yet, while I understand the reasons for these measures, as a mom of young kids stuck at home, I feel fear, frustration and sometimes doubt. I catch myself wondering: "Are these measures the right ones? Are they worth it?"

Over the next few weeks...