As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases surges in the United States, concerns are mounting over gaps in information provided by federal and state agencies. In the midst of this data deficiency, a group of overseas Chinese volunteers have stepped up to bridge the gap by developing a real-time coronavirus tracker for the U.S. and Canada.
The online portal, 1Point3Acres, has rapidly become a vital resource for millions seeking up-to-date information on the pandemic. The platform offers detailed statistics and interactive maps, bringing much-needed transparency to the public.
“Accurate and timely information is crucial in combating a pandemic of this scale,” said He Sixuan, a volunteer with 1Point3Acres. “We realized there was a lack of accessible data for people to understand the situation, so we decided to create a tool that could help.”
The dedication of these volunteers has not gone unnoticed. On Saturday, an official from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reached out to 1Point3Acres to collaborate on updating data more efficiently. The official praised the platform, stating, “We use it daily and have found it to be a very reliable and current resource.”
The initiative underscores the global collaborative efforts necessary to tackle the pandemic. By leveraging technology and community engagement, the volunteers at 1Point3Acres are exemplifying how grassroots movements can make significant impacts during crises.
“Our goal is to empower people with information,” He added. “We hope that by providing real-time data, we can help individuals make informed decisions and ultimately contribute to controlling the spread of the virus.”
As the world continues to navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19, efforts like those of 1Point3Acres highlight the importance of collective action and the role of diaspora communities in supporting their adopted and home countries alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
