Señara_STS Project_

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY Contemporary Issues in Science and Technology Spread of COVID-19 and other Infectious Diseases Submitted by: Rizza Mae H. Señara BSCpE 1-1

Spread of COVID-19 and other Infectious Diseases What is COVID-19? Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Why is it named COVID-19? On February 11, 2020, a new virus was named SARS-CoV-2, or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, because it is genetically related to the coronavirus responsible for the SARS outbreak of 2003. On the same day, WHO announced Coronavirus Disease, or “COVID-19” as the name of the new disease, instead of SARS, to avoid creating unnecessary fear for people, especially those in Asia, which was worst affected by the SARS outbreak. For that reason, WHO has begun referring to the virus as “the virus responsible for COVID-19” or “the COVID-19 virus” when communicating with the public. What is SARS? SARS, or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, is a viral respiratory disease caused by a SARS-associated coronavirus. It was first identified at the end of February 2003 during an outbreak that emerged in China. It is an airborne virus that can be spread through small droplets of saliva in a similar way to the cold and influenza. It can also be spread indirectly via surfaces that have been touched by someone who is infected with the virus. It was the first severe and readily transmissible disease to emerge in the 21st century.

History of COVID-19 The first human cases of COVID-19 were reported by officials in Wuhan City, China, in December 2019. Some of the earliest known cases had a link to a wholesale food market in Wuhan. The environmental samples taken from this market were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. This market was said to be the source of the outbreak, or it could have played a role in the initial amplification of the outbreak. Scientists have identified that the full genetic sequence of SARS- CoV-2 has an ecological origin in bat populations. SARS-CoV-1, the cause of the SARS outbreak in 2003, was also closely related to other coronaviruses isolated from bats. Since there is usually limited close contact between humans and bats, it is more likely that transmission of the virus to humans happened through another animal species, one that is more likely to be handled by humans, such as domesticated animals or pets.

COVID-19 in the Philippines The Philippines recorded the first death outside China. On January 30, 2020, the first case of COVID-19 in the Philippines was confirmed in a 38- year-old woman who arrived from Wuhan. Two days later, on February 01, 2020, a close contact, a 44-year-old man who is also from Wuhan, died, marking the first COVID-19 death outside of China. On March 17, 2020, the Philippine government declared a state of calamity in the country for six months. COVID-19 impacts on culture The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a new normal for the Filipinos. The lockdown and restrictions forced people to stay at home, causing the transition from face-to-face encounters into virtual communication through technology. The learning process has shifted from traditional face-to-face learning to online learning. When people are going out, the new normal is using facemasks, observing social distancing, and even using face shields for additional protection against the virus. The pandemic increased inclination towards technology as it is the primary tool that people use to do daily activities.

COVID-19 impacts on the economy From March to April 2020, Luzon went into a complete lockdown that restricted population movement. This resulted in a drastic decline in employment levels. The Philippine economy suffered a deep recession, with GDP decreasing by 9.6%, the largest annual decline ever recorded since 1946. Different sectors of the economy recorded severe declines in output. With the lockdown and travel restrictions, the tourism industry calculated a loss of GDP share of about 0.68 percent in the worst case. The transport and storage sector recorded a 30.9% decline. The accommodation and food service output recorded a 45.4% decline. Manufacturing production declined by 9.8%. As a result of job losses, an estimated 400,000 OFWs were repatriated in 2020. The Philippine export sector declined by 5.2% in January 2021.

COVID-19 cases in the Philippines by city or province In January 2022, statistics have shown that the new total cases of COVID-19 in the Philippines have reached around 2.84 million. As of February 17, 2022, the city with the highest total cases of coronavirus is Quezon City, with 242,790 cases. Following Quezon City are Cavite with 216,170 cases, Laguna with 163,120 cases, Manila with 145,420 cases, and Rizal with 140,820 cases. COVID-19 impacts on politics During the pandemic brought on by COVID-19, the public expects government officials to take action and help the people in any way possible. The public elects government officials who they think can lead them properly and can help them address their needs. That's why it is during a crisis and how government officials respond that the public knows who among them is worthy of their votes when election day comes.

COVID-19 impacts on society COVID-19 will forever be remembered and will be marked in our history as this affected society severely. It caused so many deaths, increased poverty, and has changed the way people live. It caused alarm and fear not just nationally, but globally. It has brought so many misfortunes, but on the positive side, it has made people stronger and has made families closer to each other. It enhanced solidarity and unity among Filipinos, where we find ways to help each other, and one of the reflections of these traits is the community pantry. When this pandemic is over, it may be hard for us to go back to how we lived before. Most of us get too dependent on technology, and it may be hard to overcome. That's another problem. But one thing is certain, the story of COVID-19 will be passed down to future generations. Silver Lining ● The COVID-19 pandemic helped improve the preparedness for pandemics on a global level. ● It highlights the importance of coordination between people and their local, national, and international governments. ● It helps make society united as they have a common goal of ending the pandemic.

COVID-19 Implications to local, national, and international events Local Due to lockdowns and restrictions, social gatherings are prohibited. LGUs make sure that the restrictions are followed for everyone's safety. This includes fiestas, parades, reunions, birthday events, and many more. Different establishments also limit the number of people who can enter to make sure social distancing is followed. Even when attending a mass, the seats have markings to let the people know how far they should be from each other. For more people to attend the mass, the church also used technology to conduct an online mass. LGUs encourage people to do events online and meet with people virtually. National and international Just like local events, most national and international events are held virtually. In 2020, the Filipino Catholics celebrated Holy Week differently from how it is done traditionally. There is no Penitensya, Senakulo, Visita Iglesia, or other holy week traditions, and Filipino Catholics attend Sunday mass online. On November 29, 2020, Miss Earth 2020 held the first virtual coronation of any major pageant in the world.

Individuals, Groups, and Organizations involved in addressing COVID-19 ● Frontliners These people were also called heroes during the COVID-19 pandemic. People are supposed to be at home to stay safe, but the frontliners are out there serving others, putting their lives at risk and doing their jobs to keep others safe and healthy. Some of the frontliners include healthcare workers, food and grocery workers, essential services like pharmacies, automotive care, convenience stores, and gas stations, sanitation workers, and volunteers. ● Interagency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) A Philippine agency established by the DOH that is in-charge of the overall management of COVID-19 preparedness and response. ● (DOH) Department of Health It is the principal health agency in the Philippines. It is responsible for ensuring access to basic public health services for all Filipinos. This agency communicates developments to the public about the current situation regarding health-related concerns, including COVID-19. ● WHO (World Health Organization) The UN’s health agency has played a crucial role in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic ever since the first cases were identified and is leading the global response to stop the transmission of the virus.

Role of science and technology in COVID-19 pandemic The pandemic brought by COVID-19 has forced people to stay at home and rely on science and technology for survival. Things that seem impossible to do without going out of the house are all made possible by technology. Attending school, earning money, buying necessities, meeting with friends, putting up a business, meeting clients, and even consulting a doctor, were all done before physically. But now, through the power of adaptation, the power of creativity, and the power of science and technology, all these can now be done virtually. Science and technology helped us get through the problems brought on by COVID-19 and are still continuously helping us disseminate information on how to slow down and eventually stop the transmission of the virus. The role of the media in COVID-19 and their influence on public opinion Technology has made information very accessible for everyone. It is used by the government to disseminate information to the public about the current status of the transmission of COVID-19. It is also used by the public to share their opinions and suggestions and is used to let the government know about their needs so they can be addressed accordingly. Technology helps the government and the public stay connected, updated, and informed. But, we cannot deny the fact that there are also many social media posts that are not accurate. This is alarming, especially when people are not checking the reliability of the data and then sharing the unreliable content for more people to see. This problem can be solved by being careful about posting and sharing anything on social media. We should develop the habit of checking the reliability of the content and the reliability of the creator before we believe the content. Being smart users of social media can prevent misunderstandings and can prevent disputes between people in the cyber world.

Other infectious diseases ● Chickenpox It is a highly contagious and common viral infection among children, caused by the Varicella virus. ○ Mode of transmission: It is easily passed through airborne particles, droplets in exhaled air, and fluid from blisters or sores. ○ Signs and symptoms: The appearance of reddish skin lesions, which later become blisters on the third to fourth day of fever, weakness, muscle and joint pains, and sudden onset of fever ○ Treatment: The rashes will disappear in 1-2 weeks even without treatment. For fever, give a sponge bath or continuous cold compress on the head. A warm shower or a warm sponge daily can help. Do not rub the lesions and drink plenty of fruit juice and water. ○ Prevention and control: Avoid crowded areas and isolate the patient to prevent the spread. Vaccines are also available as a precautionary measure. ● Cholera It is an acute intestinal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. If treatment is not promptly given, it can quickly lead to severe dehydration and death. A healthy individual may die within 2- 3 hours if no treatment is provided. ○ Mode of transmission: Eating food or drinking water contaminated with human waste infected with Vibrio cholerae bacteria ○ Signs and symptoms: Sudden onset of frequent painless watery stools, vomiting, and rapid dehydration ○ Treatment: Replace lost body fluids by giving Oral Rehydration Solution or ORESOL. If diarrhea persists, bring the patient to the nearest hospital. ○ Prevention and control: Drink only safe and clean water and keep food away from insects and rats by covering it. Wash and cook food properly. Dispose human waste properly. Use the toilet properly, clean it every day, and keep the surroundings clean. A cholera vaccine is also available and offers protection for 3 years.

● Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) It is a life-threatening respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus associated with the common cold virus. ○ Mode of transmission: It spreads through close person-to-person contact. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, someone else breathes in the virus from the droplets released into the air. ○ Signs and symptoms: High fever, headache, an overall feeling of discomfort, body aches, dry cough, and difficulty of breathing after 2 to 7 days. ○ Treatment: There is no specific treatment yet. SARS patients should be referred to a SARS referral hospital for clinical management. ○ Prevention: Health screening should be imposed on airports and seaports on passengers from SARS-affected countries during outbreaks. Contacts of SARS patients should be quarantined during outbreaks. ● Meningococcemia It is an acute and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection of the bloodstream caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. The bacteria frequently lives in a person's upper respiratory tract without causing visible signs of illness. ○ Mode of transmission: It can be spread from person- to-person through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing foods, drinks, and utensils. ○ Signs and symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, other respiratory symptoms, pinpoint rashes that become wider and appear like bruises, starting from the legs and arms, that look like large map-like bruise-like patches, severe skin lesions, unstable vital signs, and may or may not have signs of meningitis, such as stiff neck, convulsion, delirium, altered mental status, and vomiting. ○ Treatment: Early recognition of infection and prompt treatment with penicillin. Immediately consult the doctor if you are in areas where there are meningococcemia cases and if you manifest any signs and symptoms. ○ Prevention and Control: If part of a high-risk population, have a meningococcal conjugate vaccine. Avoid crowded places and close contact with meningococcal patients. Increased resistance by having a healthy lifestyle and a clean environment. Do not share utensils or anything that has been in the mouth of an infected person and wash hands frequently with soap and water.

● Malaria It is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a protozoan parasite called Plasmodium that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito that feeds on humans. ○ Mode of transmission: It is transmitted through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito, which usually bites during the night time. ○ Signs and symptoms: chills high-grade fever, severe headache, vomiting ○ Treatment: Consult a doctor when there are signs and symptoms ○ Prevention and control: Use long-lasting insecticidal mosquito nets. Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants, use mosquito repellants/coils and screens on doors and windows, and follow the advice of health workers on how to take anti- malaria drugs Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) In November 2002, doctors in the Guangdong province of southeastern China began to see the first cases of SARS, or severe acute respiratory syndrome. Over the next few months, 8,096 people in 26 countries caught the new viral illness, and 774 deaths were recorded. Doctors have not reported the early cases because they thought that it was just simple pneumonia. Nobody was aware that it was a deadly virus, which is why the cases have increased, the virus has spread to many countries, and many people have died.

In April 2003, Time magazine obtained a letter from Jiang Yanyong, a physician at an army hospital in Beijing, alleging that there were many cases of SARS in the capital city, which turned out to be true when Chinese officials reported the real numbers that same month. In February 2003, a medical professor from China who unknowingly had SARS checked into a hotel in Hong Kong and infected other guests, who then unknowingly became carriers of the virus and spread the virus to other countries. China and Hong Kong suffered the most during the SARS outbreak. In China, there were 5,327 cases and 349 deaths, and in Hong Kong, there were 1,755 cases and 299 deaths. On May 1, 2003, special wards for SARS patients were built in hospitals. Doctors and scientists weren't confident that they could eliminate the virus, but luckily, quarantine and isolation of SARS positives helped slow down the SARS transmission. Through international cooperation, the WHO and affected countries were able to end the SARS outbreak by July 2003. What can we do to end COVID-19? The COVID-19 virus spreads very fast and has killed many people. The impacts on society, culture, and the economy are alarming, and cooperation is badly needed to end this enemy. There are many things that we can do to slow down and stop the transmission of the virus, such as following the health and safety protocols, keeping the surroundings clean, proper use of face masks, avoiding unnecessary travel, and being up to date with the situation and important announcements. We could also help by being vaccinated against COVID-19 and by sharing the updates, announcements, guidelines, and tips from the government on how the public can help to mitigate the spread of the virus so that more people can see and be updated. All of us can help by being disciplined citizens with concern for others and sharing the common goal of ending the COVID-19 pandemic.



What can the government do during a pandemic? The COVID-19 pandemic has brought great loss and hardship to the people. Many businesses have failed, and many people have lost their jobs and have difficulty providing for their families. The government should ensure that the needs of the people are met. They can give cash assistance and relief goods. But these can only last for a short time, so the government should offer long-term help and solutions. The government should provide many job opportunities for people to work from home. They can also conduct online webinars about other possible ways for people to earn without leaving their homes. The government should also make sure that the prices of the products do not increase too much, so that more people can afford to buy their necessities. During a pandemic, travel and other outdoor activities are limited. Thus, there are also fewer vehicles on the road. The government should take advantage of the situation by repairing the broken bridges and roads and building facilities for the people. This can help reduce traffic because road construction when there are many vehicles increases the traffic. In this COVID-19 pandemic, the government plays a vital role in ensuring the health and safety of the people, and there are many things that they can do to provide for the people. In turn, people should also do their part in making sure that they stay safe and healthy.



According to the Medical News Website, the following are some tips to prevent coronavirus transmission: ● Hand-washing People should use plenty of soap and water to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after traveling on public transport, being in a public place, coughing, sneezing, or blowing their nose. If soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer. This would help kill any viruses on the hands that people may have come into contact with. ● Avoid touching the face The hands come into contact with several surfaces and may pick up viruses this way. If a person then touches his/her face, viruses can be transferred to the eyes, nose, or mouth and enter the body. ● Limiting contact with others When a person coughs or sneezes, small droplets containing the virus leave their mouth and nose. Other nearby people can breathe these droplets in and catch any virus that the droplets may contain.



BIDA Solusyon sa COVID-19 The Department of Health led the implementation of \"BIDA Solusyon sa COVID-19\". It aims to encourage Filipinos to be active in the fight against COVID-19, the \"COntraVIDa\". It promotes an active role by practicing the behaviors simplified into four letters. B - Bawal walang mask I - I-sanitize ang mga kamay, iwas-hawak sa mga bagay D - Dumistansya ng isang metro A - Alamin ang totoong impormasyon



How can we address the issues brought by COVID-19? One of the keys to moving forward is adaptation. Change is constant, and the COVID-19 pandemic has brought huge changes in society and culture. Staying still, doing nothing, or crying and stressing out will not change or improve anything. With the major impacts of COVID-19 on our lives, it must be hard for us to adapt immediately and move forward. But when faced with a crisis like the pandemic, we need to be strong and patient. We should adapt to the new normal that COVID-19 has brought us. If we fail to adapt, we will be left behind. Technological advancements nowadays continue at a faster pace. The inclination towards technology that resulted from the lockdown and restrictions has increased the demand for better features in technological devices. To cope with the poverty brought on by the pandemic, we can take advantage of the opportunities brought by technology. While staying at home, we can use our gadgets to set up an online business. We can use social media to promote our products and communicate with clients. Technology now is so advanced that we can even accomplish things when we are just inside our homes. With our gadgets, we can do so many things. Even just inside our house, education can continue, we can continue to earn money, and we can communicate with people that are far away from us. Technology has made our lives easier and more comfortable. We should use it to adapt to the ever-changing world and for the betterment of our lives.



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