How do you experience the coronavirus epidemic abroad? How do we look at the situation in France? The testimony of Francis Barrow, resident in Rochester in the State of New York (United States).
How are you coping with the coronavirus crisis?
I live in upstate New York, in a small town. We can not say that it is confined, as in France, even if many businesses are stopped and employees must stay at home. I myself made the decision to stay telework as much as possible (I work in a small supermarket, so always open) and I live in an apartment with access to a garden.
Are the measures taken by the authorities generally respected?
The measures taken will be rather light, when I compare to what is happening in Europe. And some people do not really respect the distance or hygiene measures offered by supermarkets for example.
How do you judge the health strategy put in place?
I especially have the impression that the strategy is late. With our eyes riveted on Europe, we can clearly see that the United States has taken longer to give the right importance to this pandemic.
What do you think of the health system in your country of residence?
This is in my opinion the big problem. Here normally people without insurance do not go to the doctor. I have decent insurance and a simple visit to the doctor costs me $ 20. The drugs are overpriced. In short, healthcare is expensive and hospitals risk being overwhelmed when people who don’t usually come because of the cost, come in droves.
Was the country prepared for such an epidemic?
Good question … I could not say. What I have read is that the United States does not have as many social barriers protecting employees as in France, and many simply lost their jobs when their business closed. Friends had to call unemployment service over 200 times to be able to speak to someone, it shows the extent of the problem
Seen from abroad, how do you see the situation in France and the management of the crisis?
The actions taken seem serious, although sometimes laughable. A piece of paper to fill out seems to be a little counterproductive, but hey, it probably lets people realize that it makes staying home as much as possible. Here, everyone goes out, there are not really any instructions on exits.
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