COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, has now infected more than 2 million people in 213 territories/areas throughout the world. While many in the United States are aware of the severity of the disease at home, what about its effects overseas?

It seems we have all been affected in some way, but are there variables that change the impact of those effects from one country to another?

We asked an IDEAS Associate and physician serving in Asia to share his thoughts about the cross-cultural similarities and differences of COVID-19's impact as well unexpected blessings that he has witnessed from the pandemic.

1. What are the cross-cultural similarities of COVID-19?

• Everyone is facing the same disease. It is a novel disease, which means that before the end of 2019 no one had ever been exposed or had previously developed immunity. Everyone is vulnerable.
• There are no specific treatments, only support for the symptoms (fever-reducing medications and, if needed, oxygen or ventilators).
• Nations and leaders are trying to limit the spread of the virus through stay-at-home orders, closure of non-essential businesses, and travel restrictions.
• Healthcare providers on the frontlines are facing shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Testing has been insufficient.
• The poor, the elderly, and those with certain chronic medical conditions are at greatest risk of death (directly from COVID-19 or, in the case of the poor, indirectly from loss of employment, food, and/or shelter).

2. What are the cross-cultural differences of COVID-19?

• Some countries have more healthcare workers, hospitals, ventilators, ICU beds, and diagnostic capability. Recently in the U.S., machines have been approved for re-sterilizing N95 face masks, though these machines are not available in all countries. Also, new rapid tests to detect antibodies against the novel coronavirus will hopefully be available soon. To what extent they are reliable and to what extent they become available in less developed countries is uncertain.
• Some countries can employ mitigation strategies more easily than others. In those countries where it is more difficult, consider the challenge of practicing social distancing in an urban slum or a refugee camp. What about in a 2-room apartment for 10 people or when you share walls, latrines, and wells with your neighbors?
• Different cultural and religious traditions and holidays make enacting and enforcing social distancing policies unique to each country. Recently, much was made in the U.S. media regarding stay at home orders remaining in place over Easter, but consider that the pandemic hit China during its largest holiday (Chinese New Year) and that Muslims will celebrate their biggest holiday in late May.

3. What other cross-cultural effects do you see?

Everyone is asking the same questions and facing the same unknowns:

• When will the stay-at-home orders and lockdowns end?
• Will there be a second wave of infection?
• Will improved testing become available?
• Will clinical trials demonstrate safety and efficacy for specific treatments?
• When will a vaccine be ready?

4. What unexpected blessings have you encountered?

Despite these unknowns, Christians know the scriptures teach that all things work together for good for those who love God. Many people are finding the good despite the difficulty and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. I even heard one nurse refer to them as "COVID-Blessings:"

• Healthcare workers and many others are demonstrating sacrificial service and love for their neighbors.
• With less distraction, people have found a greater awareness of spiritual matters.
• In their weakness and worry, they are reminded to trust in God's strength.
• With the loss of physical treasures, the goodness and joy of storing up treasures in heaven provides comfort and hope.

In the midst of uncertainty, fear, and worry, may we as Christian professionals celebrate these blessings, and may our light shine before those around us, that they may see our good works and give glory to God.

About the Author: Our author is an IDEAS Associate and physician certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. He and his wife moved to Asia in 2018 with their 3 children to provide healthcare for impoverished communities. Click here to read more from IDEAS Associates about their experience with COVID-19.