A Retired Police Officer's Perspective on the Coronavirus: Managing Risks and Public Perception

As a retired police officer, I am acutely aware of the responsibilities that come with public safety and security. However, my current role as a manager at a pharmacy has provided me with a unique insight into the public's reaction to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Despite being in my 50s and being in a low-risk group, I remain concerned about the potential impact, but more importantly, about the broader implications on public behavior and policy.

Managing the Risks

Being in good health and having no pre-existing medical conditions, my risk of contracting the virus is considered very low. Nonetheless, I accept my role in maintaining public safety by continuing to work at a pharmacy where the demand for essential supplies is unprecedented. While the risk of contracting the virus is remote, the situation remains challenging as our inventory of critical items is constantly depleted.

A Typical Workday

My workday is typically a series of apologies and explanations:

‘No, sorry, we are out of hand sanitizer.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of face masks.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of alcohol.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of aloe. ‘No, sorry, we are out of Lysol spray and wipes.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of toilet paper.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of vitamin C.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of Zinc.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of Elderberry.’ ‘No, sorry, we are out of thermometers.’

The irony of it all is that a significant portion of those requesting these items express shock that others would be buying them due to the virus. I have often responded, ‘And yet here you are asking for some.’ This has led to chuckles and a shared understanding that we are all in this together.

Public School Warnings and Revelation

My educational background has provided a stark contrast to the current pandemic. Having attended public schools, I learned about various impending cataclysms, such as an ice age, oil running out, and mass starvation due to overpopulation and global warming. These were all taught by the government and the media, which demonstrates how public perception is a critical component of managing risks.

While I am skeptical of the current government's assessment of the coronavirus, I understand that the cost of being wrong is significant. Overreacting may save lives, but there is no downside; on the other hand, underreacting could be catastrophic, even if it was not the case.

Politicians and Public Perception

The greatest calculation for a politician is the cost of being wrong. Politicians and the government face immense pressure to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their constituents, leading to sometimes overly cautious measures. This is particularly evident in the public's perception and response to the pandemic.

As a pharmacy manager, I am faced with the unenviable task of managing a stoic public's demand for essential items. Despite the challenges, I remain committed to my role, knowing that someone must be there to inform the public about the reality of our current situation.

Conclusion

While the risk of contracting the coronavirus may be low for individuals like myself, the broader implications on public behavior and policy are profound. The current pandemic has revealed the complexity of managing risks and the importance of public perception in responding to crises.

Reflecting on my educational background and the myriad of impending crises taught in public schools, I realize that our approach to managing risks is shaped by a combination of scientific understanding and public perception. As the world continues to grapple with the coronavirus, it is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective and prioritize the safety and wellbeing of all citizens.