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KT edit: Let's put public interest before our own in this fight against Covid-19

Places of worship have also been asked to close their doors temporarily.

It is a time like no other. Life is coming to a standstill globally, particularly in Europe which has now become the new epicentre of the global coronavirus pandemic. Countries are grappling to find ways to contain the spread of the coronavirus and shield people from its sting. Cities are under lockdown. Borders are being sealed. No one seems immune, no one seems out of reach as Covid-19 spreads far and wide. In the UAE, unprecedented steps taken early on are helping in containing the spread. Schools, colleges, museums, theme parks, gyms, parks, beaches, etc. have been suspended for a few weeks. People have been advised to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid large gatherings.
Places of worship have also been asked to close their doors temporarily. Social distancing is becoming a norm as we become more and more aware and conscious. There is a fear of the unknown and anxiety looms large as families, individuals struggle with the newfound challenges of working remotely, going on unpaid leaves, taking care of the elderly and children, etc. But in the midst of this, strong messages by the UAE leadership are helping reinforce confidence. On Monday, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, said: "We will get through these tough times and survive." He even reassured the residents that there is enough supply of food and medicines. This message should assuage any concerns about a shortfall. Direct messaging by government leaders always helps in reassuring people.
These are trying times and surely it would be harder to manage for families and households that were already struggling to make ends meet. It would also be tough for people with health issues to cope with the prevailing situation. They need support, and some of the measures announced by the UAE Cabinet and by authorities in Dubai would go a long way to help them tide over the crisis. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has rightly said that we should arm ourselves with positivity and optimism in the face of all challenges. Alongside we should have a strong sense of civic duty and put public interest over our own and help the UAE combat the virus. We all are in this together, and at this time we are not only responsible for our own well-being but for the well-being of our colleagues, neighbours and other residents. Let's not cut corners when it comes to personal hygiene, and take responsible decisions. The UAE is equipped to handle the crisis, now it is up to us, the residents, to show how supportive we can be.