Prague's Quarantine Extended

strict measures appear to be paying off

As you know if you've followed my recent posts, the Czech Government has enacted strict measures in an attempt to "flatten the curve" (a phrase we are all very familiar with now) of the Coronavirus outbreak here. And I'm happy to say that it appears that it might be paying off.

On Sunday we passed the 1,000 mark in terms of the number of infected people, but so far, we have had NO deaths due to the disease, and 6 people have recovered. That is certainly wonderful news!

Also on Sunday, the country received a large shipment of medical masks from China, and we sent some of them to Italy because of the huge need there.

the kindness of strangers

Otherwise, there aren’t any new measures to report here – only the fact that the existing measures, which were initially enacted for a 10-day period, have been extended to March 31st.  At that time, the government will decide whether to extend them further or to begin to lift them slowly.
 
It’s been nice to see how much kindness and solidarity has cropped up at this time. A website called “DameRousky.cz” (We Give Masks) has cropped up to help coordinate volunteers to sew face masks for those who need them (I mentioned in a previous post that the pharmacies sold out weeks ago).  Instructions for those who want to make their own – complete with multiple layers – have also made the internet rounds.

In addition, Prague public libraries are offering their online collections for free, accessible to anyone.
 
For all of you there in the U.S., I know that you are just starting this process, and I know it can be difficult at first to stay at home when you’re not used to it. But you will adjust, and hopefully it will help to “flatten the curve” there.
 
May you and yours be well.