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ITALY — From almost the beginning, Italy has been hard hit by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Concerns about the virus and the burden on Italy’s medical system became so great that the whole country is now in lockdown in order to diminish the spread of the virus.
Even though every family is restricted to their own homes, Italians across the country are supporting their individual communities through song.
People are standing on balconies and leaning out windows in their neighborhoods singing popular songs, belting their national anthem, or treating their community to operatic arias. And each example is going viral around the world as a symbol of strength and hope during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Perhaps the first song to go viral is this video from Siena, where unseen singers combine in perfect harmony and sing into the night (with dog participation).
People of my hometown #Siena sing a popular song from their houses along an empty street to warm their hearts during the Italian #Covid_19#lockdown.#coronavirusitalia#COVID19#coronaviruspic.twitter.com/7EKKMIdXov
— valemercurii (@valemercurii) March 12, 2020
But many more communities have followed suit and, lucky for us, the BBC has put together a morale-boosting compilation of the spirit of Italy.
As Mister Rogers’ mother always said during times of crisis, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." And those who boost morale and unite communities are definitely helpers.
For more information on best health and safety practices about COVID-19, visit the CDC’s website.
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