Holding Protests Against Quarantine is Dangerous

(Drawing/Madeline Chia)

Samay Nandwana, Sports Associate

While stay-at-home orders have forced millions of Americans to be stuck inside of their homes for weeks, some restless people are protesting to get out of the house. Protestors argue that it is their right to be able to leave the house, and that it is their constitutional right to assemble. Many protestors who want life to return to normal do not understand the severity of the virus. In an interview with The Washington Post,  Carrie Ezzell of Wisconsin states, “[she is] not saying coronavirus isn’t serious,” but she thinks that it is time for America to get “back to work.” Ezzell later stated that she has seen a lot in her life, and doesn’t understand why the country needs to shut down for so long for something that she believes to be a “bad flu.” 

Perhaps it is this lack of awareness that has caused some people to prioritize the economy over human health. In these uncertain times, it can be difficult for one to avoid catching COVID-19, particularly because tests are not always 100 percent accurate and people who do not show symptoms can still be carriers of the coronavirus. According to Kristin Bruhn, a medical professional from Virginia, “We think it’s unsafe and I think if we do it too soon it’s going to be even worse.” There are many people in the country who are not fully aware of the danger of the virus. It is important to realize that even if it may seem like the pandemic is coming to an end, it is very possible that there can be another outbreak. 

Ultimately, it is up to the people of the country to obey the orders of the government and listen to the insight of healthcare professionals in order to limit exposure to the virus. Going out and protesting without social distancing measures in this time is dangerous, and it is imperative that people start to recognize that. As sophomore Timmy Fong put it, “It’s just not smart. It would prolong our quarantine.” While nobody likes staying home, it is something that must be done in order to get things back to normal as soon as possible.