Germany, Munich, Amanda, Finnish, 32, Social worker, Married/Kids: No kids
General
How is the situation in your city/ country? Is there a 2nd wave yet?
The situation was better in the summer. Experts disagree on whether we are currently experiencing a second wave. But in any case, the number of infections have increased in the fall.
How did the atmosphere in your country change within the last months?
In the summer, the number of infections decreased and restrictions were relaxed and people had the opportunity to return to a “more normal daily life”. The increase in infections in the fall was expected, but still many had hoped the pandemic would be over soon. Uncertainty about the end of the pandemic frustrates many people.
How are you and your family?
Fortunately, we are all fine, and at least so far none of us has been infected.
What was the biggest challenge for you within the last months?
My family lives in Finland. It’s been hard not knowing when you can visit your family next time.
Measures
When did you realize how serious the situation is?
I realized the seriousness of the situation when schools and kindergartens were closed. An alarming sign was also when different countries began to close their borders, especially in Europe, where citizens have been able to move very freely from one country to another.
How did your government react to the crisis? Which measures/restrictions were taken first?
Schools, kindergartens, shops, restaurants, bars and gyms were closed. Only grocery stores and pharmacies remained open. In addition, there was a curfew. Going to work and going outside was allowed. It was only allowed to move outside with your own family members. In addition, a mask had to be worn in grocery stores and public transport (still valid).
Are you satisfied with the measures of your government? What was good/bad?
Yes. Decisions were made in time enough and the situation did not get as bad as it could have developed.
What would you like to say to your government?
So far, the pandemic has been handled really well!
Which sentence of a virologist/politician did you memorize the most?
“Die Lage ist ernst. Nehmen Sie sie auch ernst”. (“The Situation is serious. Please take it seriosly”) – Angela Merkel
The Virus
Do you know anybody who was infected with COVID-19 or even died?
No.
Have you already done a Coronavirus test or have you been in quarantine?
Yes. A couple of times when I had the flu.
Are you afraid of getting infected with the Coronavirus?
No, but of course I don’t hope to get the virus. What I fear most is that without my knowledge, I will infect someone else with the virus.
The lockdown
How long is/was your lockdown and what was allowed/what wasn´t?
About two months. Measures were introduced step by step. Schools, kindergartens, restaurants, bars and gyms were closed. Grocery stores and pharmacies were open. People were only allowed to move outside with a person living in the same household.
Did you spend the lockdown time with somebody and what did you do during this time?
Yes. With my boyfriend. I went for a walk, read books, and tried new recipes. I kept in touch with family and friends online.
What did you miss the most during the lockdown? What helped you?
Meeting family and friends, traveling and gym. Helpful was conversation with my boyfriend, as well as calls to family and friends.
Changes
How did your work situation change within the last months (shorter hours, working from home, etc.)
I was lucky to be able to work my normal hours, and I also got a full salary.
How did your social life (relationship/friendships/dating) change due to the Corona crisis?
I had a lot less social life. I was not able to meet family and friends as before.
What impact has the Corona crisis on your financial situation?
I am grateful that my economic situation has remained the same as in the past. I know I am lucky because for many, the situation has been an economic disaster.
Social distancing: How does your daily life look like at the moment?
A pandemic makes life uncertain and it is difficult to make plans. But I would say that my life is quite normal. I go to work, meet friends and go to the gym. I only travel in Germany and meet friends in small groups. I avoid traveling by public transport and instead ride my bike whenever possible.
Perception
Who are to your opinion the heroes of this crisis?
Nurses, doctors, anyone developing a vaccine against the corona virus, people working with children, police officers, firefighters and politicians
What did the crisis show you?
How important it is to have family and friends around you.
What will you appreciate more after the crisis?
Being ablet to visit my family in Finland, when ever I want, traveling, going to the movies and theater.
Which images will you never forget?
Empty shelves in a grocery store as well as empty streets in the center of Munich.
Which stories/incidents/experiences touched/shattered you the most?
Full hospitals, pictures of patients in the intensive care unit.
Perspective
What are you afraid of right now?
That I will infect someone else with the virus as well as the social impact of a pandemic.
What gives you hope?
Life continues despite the crisis and several people around the world are trying to find solutions to the problems caused by Corona.
Are you planning to travel within the next months?
Yes, but only in Germany. I hope I can spend Christmas with my family in Finland.
If they find a vaccine, would you take it?
Yes.
What can we all learn from this crisis?
We cannot control everything. After all, the most important thing of all is the people with whom we share our lives.
If you could give 2020 a headline, what would it be?
Horrible year, but showed us which things in life really matter.