Answer:
I didn't read the book or know the story but I can imagine that if it is meant to be literal, he/she said it because having the disease made him/her more careful and weary.
Explanation:
It is kind of like what happened with this Corona. We heard about the "disease" and became more weary and careful. Also: sharpened our senses.
Answer:no
Explanation: it is not as valuable as a large number of people nowadays pursue degrees and diplomas compared to the past
