Recently, there has been some good news in the fight against the pandemic. Antibody research is investigating novel methods of combating the virus, while others have found that a promisingly strong reaction by T cells may help limit reinfection. Furthermore, if you trust the news from Russia, the Kremlin announced that a vaccine had been created and approved. So, we’ll have to see what develops there.

However, the situation remains grim. Anyone who has seen the shocking videos of full-blown patients understands, the disease can be unduly cruel and entirely dangerous. Recent figures (August 20th) by The Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare cite 58,501 infected individuals and 1,144 deaths. Cases in Tokyo have also continued to crop up.

In case any reader needs reminding, manga artist and nurse paretiny posted a somber piece on her Instagram account. The comic communicates the devastating dark side of the disease that is most clear in full-blown infections.

Reproduced with permission from © paretiny (paretiny)

Reproduced with permission from © paretiny (paretiny)

Reproduced with permission from © paretiny (paretiny)

Reproduced with permission from © paretiny (paretiny)

Reproduced with permission from © paretiny (paretiny)

Indeed, it’s hard to imagine having to experience something like that. Hopefully, readers will be thoughtful and motivated to limit the spread of the infection.

paretiny’s fans responded:

  • “I hope that this tragic situation will end soon.”
  • “This broke my heart. It’s so sad. Regardless, I’d want to see them in the end.”
  • “Much respect to medical workers. I can understand how horrible this virus is.”

Paretiny posts other similar manga on her Instagram account and webpage.


By - Luke Mahoney.