Page 2 - Curiosity_May2021

EDITOR IN CHIEF:
Nakul Parashar
EDITOR:
Arvind C. Ranade
PRODUCTION:
Bipro Kumar Sen
EDITORIAL:
Sumita Mukherjee
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Cover Design & Illustrations By: Bipro Kumar Sen
2
Arvind C. Ranade
EDITORIAL
COVID-appropriate behaviours–Key to tackle the Second Wave
anuary 2021 gave us a great start when we had two vaccines ready in our arsenal to fight
the pandemic. On 16 January,
world’s largest vaccination drive started in India with inoculation of frontline work- ers. It was a well-planned drive and the first two phases went on smoothly. After frontline workers and seniors the drive was opened for people over the age of 45 who had comorbidities. Most of us felt that life is going to be ‘back to normal’ soon when things were taking positive turns. But by mid of April the scenario changed, and several regions of the country started witnessing a sudden surge in COVID-19 cases. This time the impact was even more severe and destructive. At the time of writ- ing this editorial, daily cases of infection have crossed the 3.5-lakh mark! Shortage of ICU beds in hospitals, supply of oxygen, and life-saving medicines are being report- ed from every corner of the country.
At this critical time, what is needed is to have patience and tolerance. We need to follow the COVID-appropriate behav- iours. Following the norms suggested by the authorities will help in containing
the spread of the disease. Let us promise that we all will follow the defined rules
like (i) Greet each other with a ‘Namaste’; (ii) Maintain physical distance; (iii) Use reusable face cover or mask and wear it properly; (iv) Avoid touching our eyes, nose and mouth; (v) Maintain respiratory hygiene; (vi) Wash hand frequently and thoroughly; (vii) Avoid unnecessary travel;
(viii) Will not circulate unverified and negative information on social media; (ix) Will not spit in public places; (x) Regular- ly disinfect and clean frequently touched surfaces; (xi) Discourage gathering in public; (xii) Seek information on COV- ID-19 from credible sources; (xiii) Will not discriminate against anyone; and (xiv) Seek psychosocial support for any stress and anxiety. For any information related to the pandemic you may call the national toll free number 1075 or your State Gov- ernment helpline number.
VIPNETians, you are our strong, able and authentic resources who understand the need of the hour and we expect you to come forward and save the lives of fellow citizens. Your commitments and dedica- tion in spreading scientific information have always made us proud. You have been working very hard for the last one year towards propagating scientific mes- sages and we urge you to come forward this time as well to discharge the responsi- bility entrusted with you. Please take care of yourself and your near and dear ones.
The present VIPNET Curiosity has use- ful information on National Technology Day and other regular fun-based activi- ties and experiments that can keep you engaged well within your home. Wish you a safe and secure time ahead.
Dr. Arvind C Ranade is Scientist ‘F’ and National Co-ordinator of Vigyan Prasar Network of Science Clubs. Email: rac@vigyanprasar.gov.in
May 2021