Editor’s Note: Starting on March 12, Ukraine announced a closure of all schools and a ban on mass events to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, the government announced on March 11. Following the new anti-epidemic measures, Ukrainians are encouraged to change their habits and adjust to the new circumstances. We asked people on the streets of Kyiv how the coronavirus changed their lives, plans, and behavior.
Vadim Koreyba
Lawyer
“I think there is no virus. I do not see any danger and just follow the rules of hygiene but without frenzy. I need to change my plans though. My wife and I wanted to visit Italy.”
Pauline Sahno
Hotel manager
“It has changed nothing. It is like the avian flu or swine flu. People died and they will die from things like that.”
Dmytro Khoroshun
Musician
“The virus has changed the way I work. I am a musician, perform with a famous artist and we have fewer orders now. People do not buy tickets, for protective measures. Personally, I think there is too much pressure. We just need to be calmer and follow basic rules. The virus, however, has not wreaked much havoc in Ukraine yet.”
Lesia Boguslavska
Works for a cruise company
“I work in the tourism industry and at the beginning of March, we would have to go to the International Travel Trade Show in Berlin. But for the first time in 54 years, it was canceled. They have not paid us back and we do not expect to receive our money soon. Our company also carries out the Dnipro River and the Black Sea cruises for international tourists. Although there were not many cancellations, we do not know what to expect.”
Svitlana Boreyko
Computer systems engineer
“I feel no changes. I have always been disciplined, washed my hands, lived an active lifestyle and danced. I do not avoid people, I love them. Although our dancing classes were canceled today…People have to wash hands after changing dance partners, but there are those who just avoid dancing with others.”
Olexiy Tolpigo
Political scientist
“I planned to have a trip, but have to delay it for a few months. Basically, that’s it. Oh, and I wash my hands more frequently. What else can I do?”
