Even if you are going stir crazy at home because of COVID-19, we have it pretty easy | Letter to the editor

As I approach my 40th day in self-quarantine, I reflect on the meaning of the word quarantine. In Italian, quarantenne means 40. In the 14th century during the Black Plague, which killed half of Europe, ships entering Venice were required to be quarantined in the harbor for 40 days before being allowed into the city.

As many of us are beginning to go batty over being restricted to the comforts of their homes, let us imagin what it was like to be on a ship during those times. After being at sea for weeks or months, with only the clothes on their backs and sparse rations, and minimal toilets, sailors faced horrendous living conditions.

There were no immunizations, antibiotics or treatment of any kind. The infected dead were simply thrown overboard. Watching Netflix was not an option and the entertainment was limited to a brawl or knife fight among the attendees.

So, before we complain about being sequestered with our spouse and best friend, in the comfort of our homes, let us think twice about complaining.

Stay home, be safe.

Dr. Glen Josphe

Bradenton

This story was originally published April 23, 2020 at 8:30 AM.