King Willem-Alexander spoke to the Dutch population on Friday about the outbreak of the corona virus. In it he declares that he is not only proud of those who are currently indispensable in society, but also calls for solidarity.
“We cannot stop the corona virus, but the loneliness virus can,” said the king, who usually only gives television speeches at traditional times. “Let’s work together to make sure nobody feels abandoned.”
The king says that daily life has changed “drastically” within a few weeks, which makes the situation extra difficult for the population and especially the frail elderly. But he also says that the Dutch can still do a lot for their fellow human beings.
“After all, we all know who needs attention in our immediate environment. This is something we have to go through together. A lot of people realize that. They keep an eye on others and help each other where possible.”
People deliver exceptional performance
The king says he is proud of the health workers and experts from, among others, the RIVM and the GGDs who now deliver “exceptional performances”. He also says that people who work in logistics, supermarkets, cleaning and education, for example, are indispensable. “You ‘carry’ us through this difficult time.”
The king emphasizes that the experts and experts are under high pressure. “It is important that we continue to give them our confidence and follow all directions. They have only one goal in mind, which is that we get through this crisis as best we can and that the risks for vulnerable people are minimized.”
According to the king, it is necessary that drastic measures be taken, including the closure of nursing homes for visitors. “I understand your sorrow when you cannot visit your loved one, your mother, father, grandmother or grandfather, in the nursing home. Right now you only want one thing: hold their hand. Give comfort.”
Enthusiasm about spontaneous actions
The king also responded enthusiastically to all relief actions that have arisen in recent weeks. As an example, he cited among others the students who offer themselves as childcare to parents with vital professions. “The Netherlands would not be the Netherlands if people everywhere were not to act spontaneously.”
The king says that the corona virus “unleashes an incredible amount of decisiveness, creativity and humanity”. And that the population ensures that the “heart of society continues to beat”. “Alertness, solidarity and warmth: as long as we keep those three, we can handle this crisis together, even if it takes a little longer.”
Follow the latest developments around the virus in us live blog.
The coronavirus in short
- The coronavirus mainly spreads through sneezing and cough drops. The virus can be transmitted directly from person to person or (for a limited time) through surfaces such as door handles.
- An infected person infects two to three others on average. Precautions are necessary to contain this.
- The vast majority of patients have mild (flu-like) complaints.
- Nearly all deaths involve the elderly or other frail, such as heart, lung or diabetes patients. If everyone complies with the measures, this reduces their risks.
- Read here what precautions you should take.
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