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By Muna Al-Fuzai
coronavirus has exposed the vulnerability and strength of the health system of almost every country in the world. It clearly showed that no country can claim to be proud of being the strongest in terms of its health system because the number of coronavirus infections, specifically deaths, and the ability of each system to provide treatment are the best criteria, and numbers don't lie.
There is no doubt that most countries in the world were not prepared for a pandemic and international health solidarity is needed between all countries in the world. Whether this virus came from a bat or from a human mistake in a laboratory, it triggered real terror and fatalities in humans, and no one knows for sure when this virus will be eliminated.
In a short period of time, the world of finance and oil were hit deeply, with millions of people pushed into quarantine, whether domestic or institutional. All governments are working now to isolate their citizens and prevent them from gathering in order to halt the spread of the virus.
Also, there's a shortage of medical equipment such as masks, clothing and eyewear for medical personnel. Operating medical devices is a difficult process for some states because they need a number of parts imported from abroad, and this is not available due to the escalating crisis. In fact, everyone is busy with their internal crises and need the equipment for themselves. This is the truth.
I also believe that protecting medical and nursing staff from infection is essential to shield them and their patients from infection and transferring it to others, but the lack of medical supplies puts their lives at risk and that of other workers caring for infected patients. Some reports indicated that the coronavirus may lead to a fundamental change in the global system, especially as it is not directed against a specific system, peoples or nations, but rather threatens everyone without exception.
Last week, a set of developments related to the coronavirus occurred, such as when Italy recorded the largest death toll in one day, and yet some Cuban doctors went there for help and support in a campaign of medical diplomacy. This is a heroic action indeed.
I think the health system in Kuwait is excellent, and it works hard at its best to prevent the spread of disease among people, along with tightening the curfew and banning social gatherings. In a country with a population of approximately four million people, the rates of disease and recovery mean that things are under control, even if the number of infected cases reached 235 cases on Saturday.
I need to say that Kuwait did not ban its citizens returning from abroad, but rather encouraged this and took all precautions to protect and treat them. I believe that Kuwait is better than many other countries that have refused to accept the return of their citizens, because they are likely to be infected!
I think this virus may bring a new awakening to the world. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that he is preparing with US President Donald Trump and other countries a new initiative to tackle the coronavirus. Hope and prayers are all we have to call for the importance of improving the health system to face the unexpected.
