In It Together

The coronavirus pandemic × pandemic SAM EDWARDS—GETTY IMAGES an outbreak of disease that spreads very and affects a large number of people throughout the world (noun) Doctors around the world teamed up to stop the pandemic and keep people healthy. is affecting people all around the world. In the face of this crisis, people near and far are finding ways to help. Here, TIME for Kids looks at efforts in four of the countries hit hardest. These actions show us the power of kindness and cooperation.

China

A volunteer helps a patient at a hospital in Beijing, China.

The coronavirus outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December. The country took big actions to stop the spread of the virus. People were told to stay home. China ended its quarantine × quarantine IMGORTHAND—GETTY IMAGES to restrain a person or people’s movements to stop the spread of disease (verb) While we are quarantined, I'm attending school online. in Wuhan on April 8.

Chinese billionaire Jack Ma has been doing his part to help others. He has sent supplies to people in other countries. In March, he donated 500,000 test kits to the United States. He also donated a million masks.

Spain

People in Barcelona, Spain, make face masks for use in hospitals and nursing homes.

At press time, Spain ranked second in coronavirus cases. Many doctors and nurses had been infected. On March 14, Spain’s government told people to stay home. Citizens have been leaning out their windows at night. They clap for health-care workers. Twitter user Carlos Delclós posted this message: “You are heroes. You are what solidarity looks like.

I hope that solidarity is what’s most contagious these days.”

United States

Workers prepare free lunches for the elderly at a restaurant in Alexandria, Louisiana.

The U.S. has the world’s highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases. In New York, thousands of retired doctors and nurses have stepped up to help. The government is also taking steps. In March, Congress passed a $2 trillion bill. The bill will help people who are out of work.

Ordinary people are helping too. They are delivering food to the elderly and giving thanks to medical workers.

Italy

A woman plays accordion for her neighbors in Milan, Italy, in March.

Italy has been hit hard by the new coronavirus. On March 9, the country’s government declared a nationwide quarantine. The spread of the disease has slowed since then.

People are following orders to stay home. To cheer them up, musicians have been performing from balconies. They fill Italy’s empty streets with sound. Videos appear on social media. One post reads: “Italians . . . always making the best of the worst. How can you not love them!”