According to The New York Times, social media has been a “godsend” in helping spread awareness of the alarmingly high coronavirus infection rates spreading throughout the country. Following huge gatherings for Holi, a popular ancient Hindu celebration also known as “the Festival of Love,” COVID case numbers and deaths have skyrocketed. Where India once thought they combatted the virus, they are now leading the world in number of cases per day.
As hospitals in India exceed capacity and oxygen supply are in shortage, people have turned to their Facebook and Twitter friends for help. In response hashtags, lists of organizations to donate to, and viral videos explaining India’s current state have permeated throughout various social media platforms (also including Instagram and TikTok) to spread awareness. Donations– both money and hospital supplies– have since made their way to India. While traveling in the pandemic is not possible, it is amazing the power social media has to be able to spread awareness and help within a matter of days.