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Global Questions

Covid: Should We Learn to Live With It?

Duration: 27 minutes

First broadcast: on BBC WORLD NEWS Asia PacificLatest broadcast: on BBC WORLD NEWS Europe

Covid-19 has brought countries around the world to a virtual standstill with lockdowns and restrictions, wreaking unimaginable economic damage. But are we fighting a losing battle against the pandemic? Is it time to start learning to live with the virus, especially with no guarantee of a vaccine? Many believe the cure has become worse than the disease, with huge consequences for unemployment and mental health. Some experts say instead of constantly trying to suppress the virus, we should accept it's here to stay and simply minimise the risk to the most vulnerable, shielding them if necessary.
It may mean learning to accept that thousands will die from Covid-19 every year, just as they do from flu and pneumonia. Should we have followed Sweden's example, of a more relaxed approach, that some say has now achieved herd immunity. Is it time for the world to rethink its Covid strategy?
Join Zeinab Badawi, her panel of experts and audience questioners from around the world to discuss Covid: should we learn to live with it? Show less

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