When the first whispers of Coronavirus were heard back in December 2019, few of us could predict the impact it would have not only on Europe, but the entire globe. The ripples have been felt in almost every aspect of our lives, including most notably felt in our social lives.

For us, we’ve seen many businesses struggle to get their products into the supply chain, with demand for medical supplies and pharmaceutical distribution in the UK as well as across the globe skyrocketing back in March and the pandemic’s effects still being felt now. Here, we’re taking a closer look at the factors that have made COVID-19 more challenging compared to pandemics of the past.

Infection Rate

The Coronavirus rapidly spread throughout the world, originating in China before entering Europe and the UK back in March this year. The rate of infection was astonishing, with city after city being put into lockdown in order to better control the spread. In fact, the only way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 was to reduce the number interactions people had with one another, making it even more challenging to control.

It Was Predictable

Back in March 2019, many speculated that the next “flu pandemic” could be on the horizon with global health experts warning of numerous infections. Using this information, many believed that the Coronavirus was somewhat predictable, with such viruses generally taking place every 10 to 40 years.

There’s No Vaccine (Yet)

Despite ongoing research taking place across the world to find a suitable vaccine for COVID-19, one is yet to be found. Right now, the race continues. Some predict that a vaccine could be found in the next 12 to 18 months, helping to wipe out the virus altogether. Such resources will need to be balanced between other vaccines too, meaning that companies will need to step up their production times in order to ensure that ends meet.

Control Measures

Until a proven vaccine is found, a number of control measures will need to remain in place to avoid a second wave of the virus. This includes standing at least 2m away from a person outside of your household or ‘bubble’ and wearing a face mask on public transport and in enclosed spaces such as inside supermarkets when it can be difficult to maintain your distance. Unlike other pandemics, most notably the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, we have a greater understanding of the correlation between hygiene and disease. These control measures have allowed us to return to the ‘new normal’ as safely and quickly as possible.

Economic Crisis

As well as the physical impact of the Coronavirus, the virus is said to have created an economic crisis like no other, forcing businesses to close their doors for good and others struggling to get back on their feet as restrictions continue to be slowly lifted across the globe. Over the last six months, many employees have found themselves in the dark about their future. It has also been described as a ‘rare disaster’ which has caused substantial uncertainty amongst the UK’s economy, putting the country into its ‘worst recession’ for roughly 300 years.

As the world remains in uncertainty, signs of a vaccine are improving, meaning that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

For more information about how we’re supporting businesses throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, get in touch with a member of our friendly, expert team on 0845 080 5190, today.