The IELTS Reading test is a challenging part of the IELTS examination, where candidates must process information rapidly and accurately within a limited time. One recurrent theme in these reading passages is the economic impact of global pandemics—a highly topical issue that has appeared in various reading texts over the years. Given the frequency and relevance of pandemics in contemporary discussions, this topic is likely to recur in future tests as well.
Main Content
Full Reading Passage: The Economic Impacts of Global Pandemics
Passage (Medium Text)
Global pandemics have far-reaching effects that extend beyond immediate health concerns. These crises significantly impact the global economy, affecting sectors such as healthcare, tourism, and trade. By examining historical pandemics alongside the recent COVID-19 outbreak, we can better understand these economic consequences.
Firstly, healthcare systems become overloaded during pandemics. Hospitals face a surge in patient numbers, requiring increased medical supplies and staff. Countries must ramp up healthcare funding, often reallocating resources from other sectors. This can strain national budgets and create long-term economic challenges.
The tourism industry is also severely hit. Travel restrictions and fear of infection result in reduced tourist activity. For instance, during the SARS outbreak in 2003, international travel to affected regions plummeted, causing massive revenue losses. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a worldwide decline in tourism, gravely impacting economies heavily dependent on this sector.
Trade suffers disruptions as well. Global supply chains are interrupted when production hubs face lockdowns. These interruptions can lead to shortages of essential goods, causing price hikes and economic instability. The 1918 influenza pandemic, for example, saw a temporary shutdown of several industries, mirroring the supply chain challenges observed during the COVID-19 crisis.
In conclusion, the economic impacts of global pandemics are multifaceted and profound. Addressing these requires coordinated international efforts and robust economic policies to mitigate adverse effects and support recovery.
Medical staff in packed ICU rooms during a pandemic
Questions
Multiple Choice
-
What is one primary effect of global pandemics on healthcare systems?
- A. Decrease in patient numbers
- B. Increase in medical funding
- C. Reduction of medical supplies
- D. Improvement in hospital infrastructure
-
Which sector is mentioned as being “severely hit” by pandemics?
- A. Agriculture
- B. Tourism
- C. Education
- D. Technology
True/False/Not Given
-
The 2003 SARS outbreak had no significant impact on international travel.
- True
- False
- Not Given
-
Pandemics generally cause an increase in the price of essential goods due to supply chain disruptions.
- True
- False
- Not Given
Sentence Completion
- During an economic crisis caused by pandemics, global supply chains often face __.
Matching Information
Match the impacts with the sectors:
- Healthcare Sector
- Tourism Industry
- Trade
Impacts:
A. Decline in tourist activity
B. Increased patient numbers
C. Interruption of global supply chains
Answer Key
Multiple Choice
- B. Increase in medical funding
- B. Tourism
True/False/Not Given
- False
- True
Sentence Completion
- interruptions
Matching Information
- Healthcare Sector: B. Increased patient numbers
- Tourism Industry: A. Decline in tourist activity
- Trade: C. Interruption of global supply chains
Lessons
Common mistakes in answering these types of questions include misunderstanding the passage context and failing to identify keywords correctly. To improve accuracy, practice identifying keywords and their synonyms, understand the passage thoroughly before answering, and always recheck your answers.
Vocabulary
- Overload (verb): to present with an excessive burden or amount.
- /ˌəʊ.vəˈləʊd/
- Disruptions (noun): disturbances or problems which interrupt an event, activity, or process.
- /dɪsˈrʌp.ʃənz/
- Plummet (verb): to fall or drop straight down at high speed.
- /ˈplʌmɪt/
- Reallocation (noun): distribution of resources in a different way or for a different purpose.
- /ˌriːˌæ.ləˈkeɪ.ʃən/
Grammar
- Relative Clauses:
- Example: “Trade suffers disruptions when production hubs face lockdowns.”
- Formula: Main clause + Relative clause (when/where/which/etc.)
Tips for High Reading Scores
- Skimming and Scanning: Learn to quickly identify key points.
- Vocabulary Building: Expand your understanding of academic vocabulary.
- Practice Tests: Regularly practice with past papers and sample tests.
By adhering to these guidelines and continually practicing, you can improve your performance on the IELTS Reading test and meet your desired band score.
