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What's essential? In France: pastry, wine. In US: golf, guns

Virus Outbreak Whats Essential
Virus Outbreak Whats Essential
Virus Outbreak France Whats Essential
Virus Outbreak France Whats Essential
Virus Outbreak Whats Essential
Virus Outbreak Whats Essential
Posted at 3:59 PM, Mar 28, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-28 18:59:11-04

The coronavirus pandemic is defining for the globe what's essential and what things we really can't do without, even though we might not need them for survival.

Attempting to slow the spread of the virus, authorities in many places are determining what shops and services can remain open. They're also restricting citizens from leaving their homes.

Whether it's Asia, Europe, Africa or the United States, there's general agreement on what's essential: Health care workers, law enforcement, utility workers, food production and communications are generally exempt from lockdowns.

But some activities reflect a national identity, or the efforts of lobbyists.