COVID-19: This is our last chance, please stay home 

There is important information in regards to the path the COVID-19 outbreak is taking since it first appeared in Wuhan , China , less than three months ago. Firstly, people in 202 are infected with the virus . Secondly, there are 634,835 confirmed cases in the world. Thirdly, and the most alarming fact, 76% of new cases, around 482,127, were registered in the last 14 days. In Mexico , from March 15 to March 29, authorities went from confirming 41 cases to 993, an important hike.

Until now, no country has been able to avoid the spread of coronavirus but many have been able to flatten the curve through the implementation of one action: social confinement . In Mexico, it was officially implemented on March 23. Questioning whether the measure was implemented in time or not is useless. Now, it’s important to listen to authorities and stay at home .

This weekend in Mexico City and in other cities was quite different as the result of the sanitary emergency . The presence of cars and people on the streets was notorious.

On March 28, the federal authorities made a plea. Dr. López Gatell said: “The measure must be fulfilled (…). This is the last opportunity to do it before the eventual start of the exponential increase in cases.”

Recommended: COVID-19: Mexico's federal government temporarily suspends its activities

The fear of the economic effects a lockdown will carry is understandable. Hundreds of thousands or perhaps millions of Mexican families, whose income comes from informal commerce , from their daily sales, will be the most affected.

At this point, people need the support of local governments. In different states, authorities have announced aid programs such as small credits for families and the most vulnerable sectors. For example, in Mexico City , credits will have a 0% interest rate and will be paid through small payments.

In this battle against an invisible enemy, as described by French President Emmanuel Macron, the individual actions made by every person will have an effect on society. If people are healthy, they will be strong enough to face any crisis .

If everyone stays home, the benefit will impact society as a whole. It’s time to unite, even when we are physically distanced. Please stay home .

Recommended: 18 million Mexican jobs are at risk due to the COVID-19 crisis

gm