A vivid memory of an event that changed the world
Five years ago, the world was shaken by the outburst of Covid-19, a virus that transformed our lives in a way we could never have imagined. The cities were deserted and the hospitals, collapsed, experienced moments of great tension.
The first symptoms of a global crisis
By the beginning of 2020, the news from Wuhan, in China, was beginning to arrive in Europe. In February, Spain already reported its first cases. In the blink of an eye, on March 13, 2020, the Spanish government, led by Pedro Sánchez, announced a state of alarm, a step that would mark the beginning of a period of uncertainty and isolation.
Creativity in time of confinement
As the confinement lasted, people sought ways to entertain and connect with others. Social media was flooded with challenges, the homemade bread became a new hobby, and the series marathons became a rule. The balconies became a recognition scenarios, where every evening at 8pm, thousands of neighbors applauded those who fought on the front line against the disease.
Tribute to anonymous heroes
Our thanks are aimed at doctors, nurses and all healthcare staff who covered extreme situations, as well as the workers of the supermarkets and essential services. His dedication and sacrifice were essential in a time of crisis.
The long way to normal
The confinement lasted longer than many expected, with its official end on June 21. However, the restrictions continued for a long time. Social life was transformed, with canceled parties and events and a new rule of social distance that marked our interactions.
The price of pandemic and light at the end of the tunnel
According to the National Statistics Institute, approximately 75,000 people were killed due to the virus in Spain during 2020, with a large part of these losses among the largest population. However, the arrival of the vaccine by the end of 2020 marked a significant change, allowing society to begin to recover, although not without sequels for many who had suffered the disease.
A legacy that will last
Five years later, the impact of that historical moment is still present in our lives. Lessons learned, shared experiences and losses suffered remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of solidarity. Explaining this experience to future generations will be a challenge, but a need to never forget what we have lived.
(Photographs of Diana Sanus)