Coronavirus. A life-threatening and fearful word that has been engraved into our head. Coronavirus. A sickness that has caused an indefinite pause in everyone’s lives. Coronavirus. A pandemic that has killed tens of thousands of people. The end of this worldwide disruption is completely unknown, which is the scariest part.

As most of you know, Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, has affected over 460,000 people worldwide. Typically, the specific symptoms that develop can be trouble breathing, cough, fever, and fatigue, and can be spread through close human contact. It is most commonly spread by the release of respiratory droplets when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes. Due to the virus’s sudden appearance, there is no vaccine at the moment, however, scientists and doctors around the world have been working together to create a treatment.

Due to the unexpected tragedies caused by this virus, the NJ state government has demanded schools to remain closed indefinitely, which means Central students and staff have a lot of extra time. Although there is an online school and people take time to catch up with friends, there are, still in fact, several hours of time where there seems to be nothing to do. As boring as it may seem to be home 24/7, it is important to focus on YOU and to have some fun too! With the extreme prevalence of stress and anxiety teenagers face, it is important to keep motivated and active, whether it be by going for a run/walk, doing a puzzle, applying your favorite face mask, participating in the Instagram challenges/trending hashtags if you enjoy them, cleaning your room, journaling/documenting how this pandemic has changed your life, etc. 

As scary as this whole situation is, the most important message that needs to be heard is to stay safe. As redundant as it sounds, wash your hands while singing your favorite song, leave your house only if it’s necessary, social distance (6 feet apart!), check up on one another — this is a major adjustment for almost everyone, and it is important to stay in touch with those you love. Even if you are not sick, do not risk getting anyone else ill. Save lives. Make the right decision. It will take time, but you will see your friends soon. We will fight through this: the whole world, nationally, and within the Central community.