ABSTRACT
In this opening chapter, I will explore the uneven ways the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted populations, both geographically and demographically. I will then look more closely at the important difference between confirmed reported cases and what the actual numbers might be, focusing specifically on the curious case of Africa. Finally, I will look at the issue of vaccines in relation to survival and close with a discussion of what it means to survive, and not just to stay alive, during a pandemic.
