About a month ago,when Corona virus lockdown was in force, I had a call from one of my readers from US asking me whether I was safe and more specifically whether I was able to be normal and without depression as the Lockdown was in force.

I replied him that I was safe and that I have been doing now what I have been doing for the past twelve years,that is doing nothing and keeping myself mostly at home!

Now there is a scare about Corona virus and the extended lockdown,now going to phase 5.More than the fear of physical harm,people are being scared out of their wits by self styled specialists that people would become depressed under lockdown and one should consult a psychiatrist.

The scare is such that even children are affected by the deluge of information.

My grandchildren are so caught up that they have made a video on this and though sounds funny,disturbed me on the fear felt by children.

What they forget is that the Psychiatrist is also at Home under lockdown.

Without attempting to diminish the seriousness of the threat of Corona virus,let me say that there is a disproportionate sense of fear and anxiety among the people.No doubt,Corona virus is dangerous and might infect people.

What are its effects?

People develop fever,have dry cough and at times no symptoms at all.

Once infected one tends to develop breathing difficulties which might develop into pneumonia.

The treatment is Paracetamol to control fever ,cough syrup to control cought,antibiotics if needed,(mostly they are avoided for fear of increasing infection),Keeping one hydrated and if pneumonia is detected treatment is done for pneumonia.In addition, adequate rest is provided under strict hygiene.

Nothing more.

The bottom line is you might develop serious breathing trouble under extreme cases,which is quite unlikely.

You can be treated for this.

Hence , disproportionate fear is irrational and it is enough if we follow basic hygiene,like washing hands and feet when we return home,avoid sneezing without cupping our mouth while sneezing,not spitting in public and abound touching and jostling in public.

This should take care of you.

One can not remain isolated for long

One has a life to lead,bills to be paid, families to run.

This,one should remember.

One has to exercise caution while moving about,follow basic hygiene and civic sense.

This would help in containing Corona virus infection.

Coronavirus and COVID-19: What You Should Know