As people around the world have begun to put their masks on because of the Coronavirus, many others have begun to take their masks off and truly speak their minds about the pandemic. Unlike the common notion of "hardships bring us together," they are actually tearing us apart. Today, the Coronavirus is effectively covering up the underlying racism that has floated to the surface in the past few weeks. Furthermore, the international economy as a whole will greatly suffer as a result of the virus.

Currently, the Coronavirus is a prominent topic in the news but as a brief summary, the Coronavirus is a pandemic that originated in Wuhan, China and since it's discovery, has caused over 900 fatalities (as of 2/9/20). This number is rapidly increasing which is catalyzing a global state of emergency. China has essentially shut down and any travel between nations is prohibited. Amidst the chaos, xenophobia is surfacing and globally, there have many recorded cases of harassment. In Sheffield, UK, a student was reportedly verbally and physically harassed in the street for wearing a face mask, while in Leicestershire two students were pelted with eggs on the street in Market Harborough. Furthermore, there have been several reports of kids being bullied in Canadian schools. People have become scared to wear their masks in public. The virus is not only taking a toll on people's health, but unfortunately, it is also taking a toll on people's mentality. In order to cross the hurdle that is the Coronavirus, unification globally is absolutely key, and unification requires awareness. 

Looking at the more statistical outcomes of the virus, the global economy is bound to deteriorate over the next few months. As a result of the fear of contamination, any transportation of people or objects between China and the U.S has been prohibited. Whether it's agricultural purchases or purchases of Chinese resources and materials, China is no longer trading with the U.S. Of course, this decision was, nonetheless, wise. Yet, the U.S-China economic relationship is suffering. Factories have shut down across China and workers have still not returned from their extended Lunar New Year holiday. Some relevant examples include Starbucks closing down over 2,000 of their shops permanently and Apple closing down 42 of its stores temporarily. Finally, tourism is being affected for obvious reasons. According to CNN, "The Trump administration is currently restricting entry into the United States from China, and Americans who have visited China within the last 14 days are screened for symptoms. Already, this is hurting airlines. American Airlines and United Airlines have suspended flights to and from China until late March, and Delta has canceled flights until April 30". Evidently, Coronavirus is affecting much more than just the health of people around the world. 

Awareness is absolutely essential in order to get through the pandemonium that we are experiencing today. While caution is necessary, a sense of humanitarianism is also key. This is history in the making and the trials and tribulations that people face today will define how future generations will find solutions tomorrow.