As news of restrictions and complete lockdowns pour in from various parts of the world, there is panic and fear among the global population about the nature and extent of the threat of the novel coronavirus. While China appears to have moved beyond the peak [stage] of the virus, it is still taking severe precautions and encouraging its people to self-isolate. Europe, it appears, is now the epicenter of the virus.

The impact is obviously not limited to a single aspect of our collective lives. From global economies and politics to social behaviours and attitudes, the virus has affected humans so deeply that it will take a considerable time to adapt.

Amidst the growing concerns, what needs greater attention are successful government policies and social practices that have helped mitigate the spread of the virus. In a society like Pakistan challenged with an already weak health infrastructure, poverty and illiteracy the scope of the test is great.

The government needs to step up and lead the nation from the front. The ghabrana naheen hai mantra may be well-intended but it needs to be backed up by purpose and action. At the same time, the people need to be mindful of the fact that these policies, including government-imposed bans on social gatherings and social distancing, are there to protect all of us. These need to be respected and observed.

The virus is no joke. While there is no need to panic, there is a pressing need for each one of us to be a responsible individual. In our Special Report this week, we look at the pandemic that is threatening to change the world as we know it.