COVID-19: an ethical predicament and the dichotomy of society

Refusing rented accommodation for healthcare workers or pelting them with stones when all they were doing were fulfilling their responsibility of isolating the contacts are some of the examples which has put a huge dent into the passion and resolution with which we had decided to join this noble profession.1 Am I still the young 17 years old pledging the Hippocratic oath at the top of my voice with all passion and hope? I guess not, 11 years on and having seen numerous instances of ill treatment of medics, I have no qualms in saying that this honourable profession does not enjoy the same admiration and reverence it once did. With the social media and news agencies abuzz with rising numbers and the toll the virus has taken worldwide, it is very easy to fall prey to rumours and may lead to an increase in panic, anxiety and apprehension.4 This has given rise to an increase in the mental health problems, not just in the general population but the healthcare personnel which can further cloud their resolve to fight.5 Also, it is very essential to keep a clear head moving forward which can be achieved by staying connected, fighting as a team and keeping all negative thoughts at bay. [...]at present, the situation we find ourselves in is akin to those soldiers and military personnel protecting the borders from foreign invasion and despite the bicameral attitude of the society towards its caregivers, we will have to continue marching forward with all precautions ensuring our safety. [...]we need to downplay the pessimism surrounding us and have to keep marching forward with a clear mind and a positive attitude in our quest to mitigate the effects of the virus.