The COVID-19 pandemic has unfortunately lingered through 2020 and shows no signs of slowing as we approach 2021. It has affected nearly every country and has reached all continents except Antarctica, earning it the designation of a global pandemic.
Pandemic-related terminology, recommended practices, medical documentation, media reporting, and more have all been translated into hundreds of languages. As a result, the need for translation services is higher than ever.
What does this mean for the new year? That remains to be seen. But if trends continue, the translation industry could be forever changed.
Translation of Medical Documentation is a Consistently Growing Need
One of the biggest translation needs is in translation of medical documentation. As doctors and scientists learn more about this coronavirus, the data needs to be passed on to doctors and scientists in other countries. Each patient, each new case, provides new information that can be used in the global fight against the spread of the virus.
Translation of medical charts, treatment plans, medications used, and more can aid in the treatment of patients worldwide. With better, faster communication there may be a higher survival rate and faster recovery rate for patients who contract the virus.
Vaccine Development is a Global Effort
The medical community as a whole is focused on the development of a vaccine that may slow and eventually stop the spread of COVID-19. Research for a vaccine is being conducted in a variety of countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the UK, China, Italy, Germany, Taiwan, Cuba, Russia, and most likely other countries as well. Translation of research data between various languages will help aid in the development of a successful vaccine.
In-Person Interpretation is Virtually Non-Existent
One major way that the pandemic has changed the translation industry is that in-person translation has all but completely stopped. Social distancing makes safe interpretation virtually impossible, as the process would often involve the interpreter standing or sitting near the person they are translating for. Masks pose a challenge as lip reading is a large part of understanding what is being said, especially in a language that is not one’s own native language.
Absence of in-person interpretation will likely continue well into 2021 unless statistics show a significant reduction in new cases of virus.
Virtual/Video Interpreters Will Be in High Demand
As in-person interpretation continues to be unsafe, virtual interpretation over video has become the norm and will continue to be in high demand as the pandemic continues into 2021. Interpreters who are already providing this service are at a distinct advantage over others in the industry. However, acquiring this skill is something many interpreters will do to stay competitive in the industry. Translation companies who provide the necessary equipment and training for their interpreters will help their business stay relevant with the rapidly changing times.
KONTEKST Provides Reliable Translation Services
KONTEKST specializes in medical translations, providing accurate documents that are repeatedly revised by experienced translators. We can translate over 250 languages worldwide and take on projects of all sizes. You can rest assured that our services are completely confidential and secure.
At KONTEKST we take the COVID-19 pandemic seriously and understand our vital part in managing this global crisis now and in the coming year. We will continue to grow and adapt with the times in order to provide the best possible translation services with the hope of saving lives.
Call +48 22 548 07 00 or contact us to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you with your current and future translation needs.
