Editor’s note: “The Bright Side” is a new series that highlights three pieces of positive news that are taking place across the state, nation and world during the COVID-19 pandemic.
1. News: There is still a shortage of testing kits for COVID-19 across the globe.
On the bright side: A medical charity in England has successfully trained dogs to detect if an individual has the coronavirus. Dogs have been utilized in the medical field to sniff out cancer, Parkinson’s disease, malaria, as well as other conditions. Having canines that are able to detect COVID-19 can provide an alternative to kit testing if unavailable, and may be especially useful when locating individuals who are asymptomatic.
2. News: Social distancing restrictions continue to be extended across the nation.
On the bright side: The world celebrated the 50th Earth Day yesterday. First celebrated in 1970, it’s now recognized by 193 countries across the globe. In almost unison with Earth day, reduced pollution levels in India have allowed the Himalayan mountains to be viewed from over 200 kilometers away, something that hasn’t been possible for 30 years.
3. News: Some high school students and graduating seniors have not been able to visit their colleges of interest.
On the bright side: Colleges across the nation have released various online courses, which can be accessed by students for free. Recently, University of California Berkeley has begun to offer their popular ‘The science behind happiness’ online, free of tuition. The ability to take college courses may aid students in determining their plans after high school, and allows them to get a glimpse of what each college is like.
