But there is a difference between healthy disagreement that offers us new perspectives and sinister polarization that amplifies divisions and erodes trust. We are rapidly learning that, without trust, public health suffers — causing misery, excess morbidity, and unneeded death. In fact, on the widely used Oxford Stringency Index, Japan scored lowest in the G10 in severity of pandemic control measures. With the unprecedented pace of scientific development since COVID-19 emerged less than three years ago, public health guidance has been in constant flux. A collective effort by leaders to reduce pandemic and broader polarization may be essential to prevent avoidable suffering and death in the months ahead.

Source: thestar September 15, 2022 03:58 UTC