LITERATURE AS A TOOL IN EPIDEMIC RESPONSE: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

The coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic quickly advanced without any available vaccines or treatments in the initial months. However, social distancing became the sole strategy to safeguard the public. In addition, resistance from certain religious groups to health precautions exacerbated the situation during the COVID-19 period. This study aimed to explore whether literature, in any language, plays a crucial role in the management of epidemics. We conducted a survey using Google Forms to collect public opinions on the role of literature in epidemic management. We found that the literature has a critical role in mitigating the spread of diseases and ultimately reducing mortality rates.