For now, it is clear that the parallel run of Covid-19 and economic reopening would not be linear. In other words, the higher the infection outbreaks, the more the economy falters is the clear trend discernible as many areas in Jammu and Kashmir returned to lockdown in a bid to contain the virus spread which now hastens to cross 15000 mark while deaths due to it crossed to 260, more than 100 in just 11 days.
How the economy evolves ahead remains up in the air, as coronanomics proves difficult to pin down. The underlining here is, of course, that there isn’t exactly a choice but to control the virus. Without that, its economics is not merely hard to understand but gets out of hand. What are the options in the absence of an effective vaccine or drug? Perhaps the only answer remains adherence to the measures to prevent the spread and remain embedded in the social distancing, hand washing etiquettes and wearing masks. Of late, the government has announced hefty penalties in a bid to make people wear the face masks. One who fails to wear it now can be fined Rs 500 or non-payment can land anyone to jail for disobedience of public order under section 188 IPC. Many people have already and continue to make considerable sacrifices to contain the spread of the covid-19—staying at home, avoiding contact with other people, giving up dining in restaurants, having no fun, etc. However, as the figures stand now, the number of new COVID-19 infections per day in Jammu and Kashmir has increased manifold. Losing hope could prove disastrous. World over, the scientists are working overtime to develop a vaccine and human trial of some candidates have already begun and results have been inspiring. Also, doctors have figured out better treatments. In India and across the world, some places which were swamped with new cases in last two months managed to significantly reduce the transmissions. The logic behind the success remained relatively inexpensive and simple preventive method whose use could be greatly expanded: face coverings. The masks can make a difference. But they only work to the extent that people wear them around others. When many people refuse to do it, out of selfishness, delusion or absurd motives, they give the virus a helping hand. It is important to note that wearing masks is important to prevent virus spread and hence save lives and livelihood.
