BC-Sunday Spotlight, ADVISORY

EDITORS:

The following story has moved as this week's Sunday Spotlight, a feature showcasing the best off-the-news enterprise in the AP report:

ECUADOR-THE STIGMA -- Even as Ecuador’s coronavirus “patient zero” agonized in intensive care, strangers began tearing her reputation apart online. Bella Lamilla’s name and photos of her, unconscious and intubated, circulated on social media where some accused her of being irresponsible and not caring whether she infected others. Lamilla is an example of how for patients and loved ones, coronavirus can come with stigma and re-victimization. It’s the flip-side of the stories we’ve all seen about good deeds and communities supporting each other: Unfortunately, the virus can also bring out the worst in people. By Christine Armario. SENT: 1,440 words, photos, 880-word abridged version.

The AP