A dry cough, a simmering fever, a sluggishness of fatigue -- these are some of the symptoms typically associated with the coronavirus. And these were the indicators Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement, was looking for as her partner began to fall ill.
As the illness took hold, she noted another painful, and less discussed, outcome.
With her partner now recovered from the illness, she documented her experience as a carer on twitter, which has now been shared thousands of times across the globe. She carefully described the huge involvement she had in keeping the illness at bay.
Burke's partner was exposed to the coronavirus at work. He works with homeless people, and deemed an essential worker had continued his work as the pandemic tightened its grip in New York. The US currently has the most recorded cases of the coronavirus with over half a million people diagnosed. The majority of the cases recorded are still active.
When he first showed signs of the virus, Burke rushed to the emergency room with her partner. They were given X-Rays and tested for COVID-19. While she was negative, her partner received a positive diagnosis. They were both sent home to remain in isolation, and Burke was told to call 911 if her partner skipped a breath. With that directive, she stayed up to watch him breathe all night.
On day eight he started to get worse, and that’s when the pressure began to overwhelm Burke.
After the scariest night, Burke says his temperature stabilised. She was told her partner would have to go three days without fever or medication before turning a corner, and both were thoroughly relieved when that happened.
Burke still doesn't have any symptoms but is keeping her distance from people.
Having played such a hands-on role in her partner's recovery, she wrapped up her experience by shining a spotlight on those who may not be so lucky to have the option of a carer in close quarters.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others and gatherings are limited to two people unless you are with your family or household.
If you believe you may have contracted the virus, call your doctor (don’t visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
If you are struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000. SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments.
