Jemimah Violette N. Tan Mr.

Jose Arthur Tagal

VETM1J December 10, 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic is now a part of our history. It has left a mark on societies
worldwide, challenging governments, communities, and individuals to adapt, innovate, and come
together in the face of unpredictable adversity. As nations grappled with the challenges posed by
the virus, their responses varied, reflecting unique approaches shaped by cultural, economic, and
political contexts. Examining the strategies employed by different governments provides valuable
insights into the evolving landscape of pandemic management, shedding light on effective
measures, disparities, and the complex interplay between public health and broader societal
considerations.

Origin
The COVID-19 which was first occurred in Wuhan China, in December 2019, has become
a global health crisis, which spread worldwide. Its original name was “novel coronavirus”, that
was believed to have originated in bats that spreads through direct, indirect, or close contact with
infected people through respiratory secretions such as saliva or airborne droplets produced during
coughing, sneezing, or even speaking. World Health Organization officially declared it as a
pandemic on March 11, 2020. COVID-19 is highly contagious, with symptoms typically
manifesting within an incubation period of 2 to 14 days. This was the main reason why the world
suddenly distanced apart.

Impact to the Global Economy

The global economy has weathered significant challenges due to the far-reaching impact
of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the crisis has brought about new opportunities for remote
services, with a surge in online shopping, delivery services, and the popularity of virtual workouts,
it has concurrently dealt a severe blow to traditional sectors. The tourism and oil industries, along
with non-essential services, experienced a sharp decline as travel restrictions and lockdowns
crippled international movement and consumer spending. The United Nations reported a
staggering $2 trillion shortfall in global income, emphasizing the widespread economic strain.
Developing countries bore a significant brunt, with a $220 billion hit further exacerbating existing
economic vulnerabilities. The pandemic's economic repercussions have underscored the need for
global cooperation and strategic interventions to navigate the complexities of recovery and ensure
the resilience of economies worldwide.

How USA, China, and Philippines responded to the pandemic

USA

By embracing science and public health principles, the Biden-Harris administration has
crafted a comprehensive seven-point plan to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.
This plan prioritizes expanding testing accessibility by establishing a U.S. Public Health Jobs
Corps, which will mobilize 100,000 individuals to implement culturally sensitive contact tracing
and safeguard vulnerable communities. Leveraging the Defense Production Act, the administration
is boosting the production of essential protective equipment, ensuring adequate supply for all
Americans, particularly in underserved areas. Clear, evidence-based guidelines are being
developed for communities, schools, small businesses, and families, with the CDC providing
specific recommendations tailored to the current risk level and viral spread. A $25 billion
investment will facilitate a comprehensive vaccine manufacturing and distribution plan,
guaranteeing free and equitable access for all. To address racial and ethnic disparities, a COVID-
19 Racial and Ethnic Disparities Task Force has been established, which will transition into a
permanent Infectious Disease Racial Disparities Task Force after the pandemic subsides.
Furthermore, the administration is committed to restoring relations with the World Health
Organization and implementing nationwide mask mandates through collaborations with
governors, mayors, and the public.

China
 China has adopted a multifaceted approach to pandemic prevention and control,
incorporating digital technology, a zero-case policy, comprehensive nucleic acid testing,
widespread vaccination initiatives, a prolonged quarantine system, and an official accountability
framework. In the realm of digital prevention, the country employs drone cameras and QR code
scanning services to dynamically monitor, track, and regulate gatherings, leveraging big data
tracking and satellite communications for contact tracing through health and travel codes. The
zero-case policy entails stringent protocols for active treatment and isolation following the
identification of a COVID-19 case, with close contacts subjected to medical isolation and early-
stage disease detection through nucleic acid testing. The government mandates widespread nucleic
acid testing, emphasizing swift checks and early intervention. China prioritizes strict control
measures, expedites vaccine research and development, and provides free vaccinations to
voluntary recipients. The long-term quarantine system is implemented for individuals traveling
internationally or to areas of medium and high risk. An accountability system holds both officials
and citizens responsible for violating pandemic prevention regulations, with penalties such as
dismissal, demotion, suspension, warnings, or case reviews based on the effectiveness of
prevention and control efforts in their respective jurisdictions.

Philippines

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global case count reached 82 million by the close
of 2020, with the Philippines recording over 473,000 cases. Faced with the persistent threat,
national governments, including the Philippines, have been crafting, implementing, and refining
health policies based on WHO recommendations, global experiences, and practical lessons.
Initially, efforts aimed at preventing and mitigating transmission varied in scale and speed,
reflecting differences in resources and healthcare preparedness among nations.

In the early stages, countries grappled with finding effective measures to flatten the
pandemic curve, preventing overwhelming strain on healthcare facilities. Public health policies,
addressing both epidemiological and socio-economic factors, revealed the strengths and
weaknesses of governments and highlighted societal inequalities.

While national governments enforced broad policies, local government units (LGUs) in the
Philippines had to devise nuanced, real-time interventions considering the heterogeneity of
COVID-19 transmission dynamics in various communities. Policies like voluntary physical
distancing, mask-wearing, face shields, mass testing, and school closures demonstrated varying
effectiveness across localities. LGUs, grappling with the health crisis, also faced economic, social,
and fiscal challenges. Urban areas, identified as COVID-19 hotspots, benefited from well-
established health facilities, whereas rural communities, often less developed and deprived,
encountered unique hurdles.

In summary, the Philippine government's response to the pandemic involved implementing

Personal assessment and conclusion

In conclusion, the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic from various governments, including the
Biden-Harris administration in the United States, China, and the Philippines, highlight diverse
approaches shaped by unique contexts and priorities. The Biden-Harris administration's
comprehensive seven-point plan, grounded in science and public health principles, underscores the
importance of expanding testing accessibility, prioritizing vulnerable communities, and ensuring
a robust vaccine distribution plan. The emphasis on evidence-based guidelines and addressing
racial and ethnic disparities further demonstrates a commitment to equitable public health.

Similarly, China's approach combines digital technology, a zero-case policy, widespread

In the Philippines, the government's recognition of the need for localized solutions reflects
an understanding of the diverse transmission dynamics and societal disparities within the nation.
The implementation of a range of policies underscores the challenges faced by local governments,
particularly in balancing health and economic considerations.

These case studies underscore the global nature of the pandemic response, where each
country grapples with unique challenges and opportunities. The effectiveness of strategies lies not
only in their implementation but also in their adaptability to local contexts, collaborative efforts,
and a commitment to addressing disparities. As the world continues to navigate the complexities
of the ongoing pandemic, sharing insights and learning from diverse experiences will be crucial in
building a more resilient and interconnected global health landscape.

Practical and Individual Lessons from covid experience

Ever since the pandemic hit, I've become more aware of my health—physically, mentally,
and emotionally. The COVID-19 crisis has tested my resilience, adaptability, and reshaped my
life. Physically, the pandemic has pushed me to commit to healthier lifestyles. I’ve realized the
importance of regular exercise and mindful nutrition, as this will be my weapon against the virus.
My mental and emotional well-being, which was often overlooked, has caught my attention. The
uncertainties of the pandemic have sparked to me a greater focus on self-care and destigmatized
discussions around mental health. I now want to seek professional support for my holistic well-
being. Adaptability and resilience have become virtues. The sudden shift to remote online learning
has tested our capacity to navigate change. This adaptability, honed during the pandemic, has
proven to be a vital life skill, enabling individuals to thrive in an ever-evolving world. The digital
transformation has accelerated, forever altering how we work, learn, and connect. Online platforms
have become lifelines, breaking down geographical barriers and reshaping our understanding of
community. Financial preparedness has taken on new importance in the wake of economic
uncertainties. People are now more conscious of budgeting, emergency savings, and long-term
financial planning, recognizing the fragility of economic stability during crises. Communities have
displayed remarkable solidarity, emphasizing the strength found in collective support. The
pandemic has fostered a renewed sense of appreciation for essential workers, recognizing their
invaluable contributions to society.

In essence, the pandemic has been a catalyst for personal and societal transformation,
teaching us valuable lessons in health consciousness, adaptability, community support, and global
connection. As we navigate the post-pandemic era, these lessons serve as a compass for building
a more resilient, compassionate, and connected world.