The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 has become an extraordinary and shocking event for the world community and the global economy. No one might have imagined that the virus could close borders, break international economic ties and divide states and people. In fact, society has entered a new era of socio-medical restrictions, which have become universally widespread. Looking at the possible ways out of COVID-19 pandemic, this paper hypothesizes that mass vaccination and reduction of social restrictions are the two ways that, combined, may lead the countries out of this crisis.
The onset of COVID-19 pandemic caused many fears and apprehensions as it was the unknown decease with unpredictable outcome. While many people died and many others were taken to hospitals, there were no treatment standards that would allow the combat the decease effectively. With the progression of the decease, several factors emerged that effectively blocked any attempts to find effective medication. First of all, coronavirus was most effectively destroyed by immune cells, while medication proved to have a restricted effect. Secondly, coronavirus quickly mutated, which made it difficult to develop effective medication against new strains. Thirdly, with many people infected and the decease quickly spreading, it was very difficult for healthcare systems all over the world to cope with huge numbers of patients.
All this pointed to the fact that it was easier to prevent the decease than treat it, and different vaccination schemes were elaborated. Immunization is internationally recognized as one of the most successful and effective health measures to preserve human life and health. The benefits of vaccination are obvious: it helps people to resist infection, turning it into a milder form. Vaccination activates all defense mechanisms that protect the body from the pathogenic effects of microbes and viruses (He et al., 2021). Moreover, vaccination helps to create collective immunity so that people who have some contraindications to vaccines cannot fall ill. Considering all the above said, from medical and social position vaccination remains one of the best ways to combat the decease.
Another initiative that could be beneficial from the socio-economic point of view in the current situation is the lifting of restrictions. The ban on social gatherings, the necessity of distancing, and new migration laws has led to the grave economic circumstances. Many businesses had to close down while others teetered on the brink of bankruptcy. While governments around the world significantly increased measures to stimulate economic growth, these measures may not be enough. Many supply chains were broken due to the erected barriers to the movement of goods, and these barriers are not yet removed (He et al., 2021). The free movement of goods and people is essential for any business. While vaccination is on the march it would be wise to remove restrictions imposed at the beginning of the pandemic. It would allow businesses to return to normal work and increase the number of workplaces.
The COVID-19 pandemic is a challenge that sets before the governments many tasks. The necessity to reduce the mortality and hospitalization rates goes hand in hand with the obligation to stimulate economic growth and support businesses. Many measures have been considered to combat the disease starting with lockdowns and social distancing to wearing masks in public places. While these measures have been partially successful, they have led to a drastic decline in economic growth. Vaccination has remained the only way to combat COVID-19 without endangering economies, that is why the combination of mass vaccination with removal of restriction is considered the best strategy to put pandemic to an end.
References
He, W., Zhang, Z. J., & Li, W. (2021). Information technology solutions, challenges, and suggestions for tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. International journal of information management, 57, 102287.