Question

how are Americans responding to mass media news coverage of COVID-19 and the Coronavirus pandemic?

Answer 1

Dear Student,

The Covid-19 pandemic that originated in China has spread to more than 100 countries having infected more than two hundred thousand people and resulting in more than eight thousand deaths. Countries have restricted flights and over mode of international travels to curtail the virus. Many companies have adopted to the work from home policy and people have put themselves under self isolation to prevent the spread of the pandemic.

The pandemic has caught the attention of US citizens raptly. Half of the adult population is following the news very closely while another 38% of the pouplation is following the news fairly closely. The number of confirmed patients in US has risen to 3000. President Trump has banned foreign travels from Europe. Americans believe that the US media has done a pretty good job in covering COVID-19 outbreak, while some think that media houses has exaggerated the fear of the disease.

Television personalities and actors have requested people to self isolate themselves and prevent spreading the disease. Famous actor Tom Hanks along with his wife was tested positive for Covid-19. He broke to news saying there is no need to panic and that their treatment is underway. Idris Alba, another popular actor was tested positive. Major sporting events have been temporarily stopped. NBA matches and WWE matches took place in empty stadiums.

There has been however, huge misinterpretation of stocking groceries amongst the US citizens. People are stocking huge amounts of Toilet paper and unnecesary food items in fear of the pandemic. The first human trial for corona virus was conducted at a research facility in Seattle. Scientists and researchers are trying their best to come up with a solution to curtail this pandemic. WHO has released few guidelines to follow during the pandemic. Washing hands regularly and using hand sanitizers can help reduce the chances of catching the virus.

While there is a sense of fear among people over the breakout of pandemic , it becomes really important that we co-operate with one another in this tough time. It is important that we learn from the mistakes of Italy, which has suffered a lot from this pandemic.

Thank you!

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