Porthole

Coronavirus? Yes, it's here in Taiwan but contained.

I responded to my friend Ann: I trust the Taiwan government more than the USA... People here have national health insurance, take health seriously and the government isn't 'playing'. You're fined if you don't report it and quarantined if there has been contact until proven you don't have it. There are 18 cases, no deaths. Masks available to everyone including foreigners. Temperature checks at museums, etc. It's as safe here as anywhere.

I am frustrated with family and friends who think I'm in danger ... I AM! I'm old and not in the best health ... that makes me vulnerable to catching the regular flu, falling, getting hit by a moped or car, or most anything else.

BUT ... no, the good-old USA isn't 'safer'. Taiwan has a plan they are implementing. Does the US?

And by-the-way ... the health system here is light-years ahead of anything in the US where poor people aren't taken care of adequately. Should the coronavirus hit the homeless community, nursinghome, university or local jail? Puh-leeze...

Would I consider coming home early? Yes. I live alone and other than having to use the common toilet and showers ... I could isolate myself if necessary. I have enough food and if I bought a few perishables I'd be good to go for a week or two.

My fear? The treatment I'll get once I'm home. And possible hassles from officials who don't know Taiwan isn't China.

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