Shanghai,
China
As
the rest of the world goes mad with corona-panic, Shanghai seems to be
re-emerging from the other side. Spring has arrived here – the temperature is a
pleasant 20°C – and the weather will probably remain warm until November. It
remains to be seen whether this so-called ‘novel’ virus can survive the human immune system and summer temperatures. I suspect not.
The
Chinese government’s measures have been draconian, but it has made commendable
efforts to alleviate immediate hardship. Almost everything was closed for a
month, except essential services (and the odd bar, if you knew where to look).
Businesses were given one month’s free rent and utilities. Employees’ sick/absence pay was paid in full, so
no one was disadvantaged financially by self-isolating at home. Everyone, everywhere, has
his or her temperature checked multiple times daily, and masks (although useless) are mandatory in public spaces
(Figures 124.1 & 124.2). The consensus is that the crisis, if there really is one, has been managed
competently. Shanghai has a population of 25 million and, so far, fewer than
500 positive coronavirus tests. (Whether the Chinese authorities are reporting
the whole truth is another matter.)
Figure 126.1: On the Metro: personal
protective equipment par excellence. Why anyone would believe that a surgical mask could prevent viral transmission is a mystery.
Copyright © 2020 Paul Spradbery
Figure 126.2: Whatever it takes: a
custom-made hazmat suit.
Copyright © 2020 Paul Spradbery
There
are also strict laws against profiteering and stockpiling. Bulk-buying is prohibited,
and, unlike in the West, there are no greedy spivs and chancers making a quick
buck from sales of masks and hand-sanitizing gels. Good personal hygiene is
expected from everyone (Figure 124.3).
Figure 126.3: Even handshakes are strongly
discouraged. The latest alternative is the ‘Wuhan Shake’, which might spawn a
choreographed dance craze.
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The
Chinese cannot comprehend the panic-buying of toilet rolls in the UK. They find
it both amusing and weird. Perhaps it will become the new reserve currency and
enable me to exchange a few boxes for a small island a few miles off the coast
and become known thereafter as Lord Andrex of Bogville. I suppose it would
bring a new meaning to the term ‘feeling flush’.
Remember:
humour is a valuable tonic, even in dark days (Figure 124.4).
Figure 126.4: Meanwhile, back in Spain
…
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© 2020 Paul Spradbery
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