COVID-19: from Health, Education, Economic, to Science and Technology in South East Asia and India

Book excerpt: A major crisis is happening in the world today. It all started in December 2019, when an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) began in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. Despite all preventive steps taken by government and health agencies, rising death tolls seem inevitable. The confines of social distancing have driven society toward a sudden and rapid change in all aspects of life, and we are forced to embrace this change as the new "normal". Research conducted in these uncertain times allows us to identify, and analyze the challenges to finding effective strategies and solutions. This book provides current theoretical perspectives, studies, practices, and innovations that will contribute to society during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in Southeast Asia and India. The current work can be used as a reliable reference, as rapid circulation of credible information, transparent case identification, data sharing, unhindered communication, and peer-reviewed research are most needed during this period of uncertainty.