CAUTION! Beware of lifting lockdown

Come what may, the determination and commitment to combat adversity have pushed humans’ survival instincts to new limits to restore livelihood. Likewise, global fight against the coronavirus pandemic is the manifestation of this human spirit. Beyond boundaries, the battle against the pandemic is witnessing an unprecedented challenge to fight for life.

This battle is not over yet? World Health Organisation (WHO) warned countries against “quickly lifting restrictions” on global responses – lockdown, stay-at-home, social distancing – put in place to curb the spread of the virus. “Some countries are already planning the transition out of stay-at-home restrictions. WHO wants to see restrictions lifted as much as anyone. At the same time, lifting restrictions too quickly could lead to a deadly resurgence. The way down can be as dangerous as the way up if not managed properly,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at a virtual news conference in Geneva.

Dr Tedros said that WHO is working with affected countries on strategies for safely easing restrictions, for which important factors must be considered:

• Ø  Transmission is controlled.
• Ø  Importation risks can be managed.
• Ø  Sufficient public health and medical services are available.
• Ø  Outbreak risks in special settings like long-term care facilities are minimized.
• Ø  Preventive measures are in place in workplaces, schools and other places where it’s essential for people to go.
• Ø  Communities are fully aware and engaged in the transition.

Stressing on every single person to play a role in ending this pandemic, Dr Tedros also raised the concern of large numbers of infections reported among health workers. “When health workers are at risk, we’re all at risk. In some countries there are reports of more than 10 percent of health workers being infected. This is an alarming trend,” he said.

Dr Tedros stated, “Many health workers are also being exposed to large numbers of patients in long shifts with inadequate rest periods. Evidence also shows that when health workers wear personal protective equipment (PPE) the right way, infections can be prevented. That makes it even more important that health workers are able to access the masks, gloves, gowns and other PPE they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.

- Singh Rakesh Ranjan