I'm really enjoying reading the 非典 SARS weblog. Today they even linked to Wangjianshuo's site. And I enjoy their positive attitude. In a very rough translation, this is their analysis of the silver lining of the SARS epidemic:
- People are watching their personal hygiene like never before; new habits like the washing of hands are finally being learned.
- Because people are taking care of themeselves, typical springtime illnesses like fevers are down this year.
- The quality of medicine has increased, and old stock has been completely sold out.
- (Something about the production of lots of face masks and medicines)
- The social status of medical personnel increased.
- The hygiene of previously neglected public areas has been improved.
- Privacy is more respected; people don't visit unless they have specific business.
- Wild animals are protected because nobody wants to eat them. (SARS saved the pandas! -ed)
- Lots of work units went on vacation, so people could finally take that big holiday.
- With less people on the street, the social atmosphere improved.
- People are more willing to give up their seats on the bus--just give a little cough. (LOL -ed)
- The telecommunications industry is prospering, as people hole themselves up in their rooms and only speak on the telephone.
- (Something about people being friendly at home.)
- Men are getting better at cooking; since they're not doing anything they might as well help in the kitchen.
- Reading books is fun again, because there are less entertainment options.
- Nobody plays majiang or gambles with friends because they're afraid of getting infected.
- TV gets watched more often, so advertisers get more for their money.
- Internet usage is up, computer viruses are more frequent, so anti-virus software makers prosper.
- People are afraid to take the bus, so bicycle sales are up.
- Snack sales are up, so grocers are happy.
- Law and order has improved, 'cause who goes into anybody else's home?
- Business is slow for the ladies of the night, so AIDS transmission has slowed markedly.
- The traffic situation has improved, and air pollution has fallen.
- People who wouldn't consent to open the windows are now willing to ventilate the room, so it isn't as stuffy indoors.
- Relatives won't visit, new parents put off having kids, the population crisis is slightly relieved.
- People learn to value health and life, and to stop fighting, bickering, being jealous and thinking of suicide.