Sonja Kittelsen has worked as a researcher studying the global politics of epidemic prevention, preparedness and response for approximately 10 years. She has a PhD in International Politics and lives in Oslo, Norway. She is currently a researcher at the Centre for Development and the Environment (SUM) at the University of Oslo.

In this episode, Sonja and I discuss:

* Whether the world has seen anything like COVID-19 before

* Why COVID-19 is different than other viruses

* The definition of a pandemic

* How this pandemic started

* How worried we should be

* What it means to “flatten the curve” and why that is important

* Getting people the healthcare they need

* Why testing is crucial

* The role of a government during a pandemic

* Financial aid for individuals and businesses

* Supporting local & small businesses

* How long the current restrictions can continue

* Forced creativity during isolation

* Countries that are “ahead” of us

* How restrictions could increase

* Why we can expect pandemics in our modern world

* Resources for accurate information

Find accurate information from the World Health Organization: www.who.int

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