THE rapid surge in covid cases has posed a conundrum for the government, it has an onus to ensure citizens’ health and economic security, it is faced with a daunting challenge to safeguard both. The situation seems to be sliding back to what it was a year ago when things went haywire. The daily case records have risen and the rise in numbers is worrisome. Unfortunately, this comes at a time when some semblance of normal life was returning.
The sudden rise in covid cases may prompt the government to impose stringent restrictions or perhaps a lockdown. A total lockdown will be devastating for the economy which has just begun to spring back but it will be the only option left with the government if the situation becomes progressively worse. The government should not wait to take action when the push comes to shove, it will be prudent to impose some restrictions now, to prevent the situation from deteriorating. Non-essential travel has mainly contributed to the spike, while it is essential for restoring economic growth but some restrictions must be imposed to keep the cases under control. The occupancy in hotels, cafes, and restaurants must be slashed to 50%. Restricting travel will eliminate the risk of a disastrous surge without crippling the economy.
It is important to understand this virus will not vanish into thin air, a complete lockdown is not an option, it will destroy livelihoods, a vaccine shot is not a remedy as well, though it will play a huge role in mitigating the severity of the virus, it doesn’t eliminate the possibility of its contraction and transmission. As stated by the WHO chief António Guterres, we must learn to live with this virus, complying with the SOP’S and refraining from carelessly venturing out will keep the virus at bay.
Maria Riyeaz
Mriyeaz@rediffmail
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