There is a movement in the Netherlands with a name that roughly translates as ‘virus mania’. They basically proclaim that all corona measures are unnecessary and should cease immediately. They even suggest that our basic human rights are being infringed.

They suggest that the corona pandemic is nothing worse than a normal mild flu pandemic.

It will come as no surprise to those that know me that I strongly disagree with their conclusions. They are based on an agenda of political opposition – surprise, surprise.

Whilst I accept that the science is not yet completely clear, that in itself is hardly surprising with this variant of the corona virus which was completely unknown until the turn of the year and most certainly behaves differently to other pandemic viruses in the past. The after effects of a Covid-19 illness are also more severe than from the flu.

To advocate the cessation of all measures is entirely reckless and fills me with fear. Whilst the measures may yet prove to have been over-cautious, pretending no measures are necessary is irresponsible.

Avoiding physical contact with others when we do not know if they might be carrying the infection, and keeping a respectful distance so that we don’t breath in the infected droplets others are breathing out is the basis of keeping this virus at bay. It is common sense.

Lockdown, in a sensible and proportionate form, is a sensible policy. The term ‘lockdown’ is unfortunate since it has connotations of prison and curfew. The Dutch government’s attempt to temper the expression by calling it an ‘intelligent lockdown hasn’t really had much effect.

Social distancing is sensible, although I respect the right of those who choose to ignore it. However, in doing so, they are increasing the risks for those more vulnerable to the consequences of Covid-19 such as myself. Doctors have already discovered that around a third of corona ICU patients have sustained permanent lung damage as a result of the virus and

For a government trying to navigate a country through the perils of a pandemic, it isn’t a question of following a map with clearly defined coordinates but more like trying to steer a raft on a stretch of wild water.

With that in mind I will publish this post and work on part 2 which comments on the hearing held today for an injunction.