The WHO has cautioned that leaders and nations should not give in to “pandemic fatigue” and lower their guards. This is very sound advice. Granted that people across the world, are weary of restrictions like social distancing, not being able to meet friends and families freely, etc.

The pandemic has led to horrendous levels of lockdowns and curbs, even loss of livelihoods. So, people are weary and frustrated. There were very disturbing photographs of people shopping for the festivals in the crowded streets in cities in India, without masks and without any social distancing whatsoever.

There is a need to understand clearly, that when a person risks his life, by disregarding the COVID-19 protocols, he is not merely risking his own life. He is also risking the lives of his family, friends and other citizens. Nobody has the right to get tired in this war against COVID-19. None of us can declare a private peace, with the pandemic. Then, we endanger the lives of others.

Thus, we cannot throw caution to the winds. Till the vaccines are finalised, the restrictions on social distancing should continue. We cannot risk more mortalities. So, it is alarming to note the street protests against COVID-19 restrictions like masking or social distancing, in some European countries.

This is happening at a time when Spain has declared a six-month emergency and night time curfews, to halt a second wave of COVID-19. Italy too has decided to shut swimming pools, theatres, cinemas and gymnasiums.

Thus, COVID-19 cannot and should not be taken casually. We have to fight, relentlessly.

Rajendra Aneja — By email