Research Matters

I hope you and your families are staying safe and abiding by the protective measures the authorities have devised for us. This year, we had one of the most unusual months of Ramadan in our lives. While this Holy Month is cherished for communal gatherings, spending time with our loved ones, and congregating in mosques, this time we were all confined to our homes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we prepare for Eid, we must remember not to compromise on our safety and that of the whole community.

During the outbreak of diseases, frontline healthcare workers are faced with the most daunting task, as they not only have to expose themselves to the disease but also deal with the psychological burden of treating severely ill patients. While doctors are trained to manage stressful situations, the phenomenon of COVID-19 is unprecedented, and healthcare providers are risking their lives to treat an increasing number of patients for a disease for which there is no known cure. In the line of duty, several healthcare providers have themselves tested positive for the virus, and many have lost their lives, which adds to the mental stress that healthcare providers are facing globally.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a range of challenges, including that of managing the information, or rather misinformation, which is spreading faster than the virus itself. During a catastrophe, it is very challenging to manage, analyse, and disseminate information in such a way that public health and safety is not compromised.

Students across the world and their studies have been severely affected by the spread of COVID-19. From the closure of educational institutions and postponement of examinations to students shifting to a digital mode of learning, different approaches are being explored to ensure the continuity of education and the safety of the students.