The date of May 3, hope, but much effort remains to be made.
The National Security Council’s announcement to extend strict containment until May 3 was not a big surprise in itself. But this date is also not guaranteed to leave, even partially. For certain measures to be lifted (while respecting social distancing), the situation will obviously have to change, the pressure on hospitals will drop and a different way of life will have to be adopted. The WHO has also issued a series of advice so that this deconfinement takes place while minimizing the risks.
1. Contamination control
The first and most important of all conditions is to have the number of contaminations controlled and limited to certain “sporadic clusters of infections”. It will not be possible to prevent new infections, but it will be important to isolate them immediately to avoid a new outbreak of cases.
2. Sufficient testing capacity
WHO would like to see a shift from treating patients to detecting the coronavirus. Ideally, all suspected infections, no matter how serious, should be tested. In addition, the results of these tests should be available within 24 hours. In this way, the coronavirus can be easily and quickly isolated.
3. Risk of epidemic minimized in hospitals
In order to minimize the risks in hospitals and health care facilities, the government needs to know the number of infected people living there. Many countries and governments do not know the number of infections in their residential care facilities. Therefore, it is often these parameters that allow the virus to grow more.
4. Preventive measures at work and at school
Once the deconfinement begins, many people will return to work or school. Very strict measures must be applied, even if the content is not yet known. Flemish Education Minister Ben Weyts (N-VA) said primary schools could open first in Flanders because they are close to home and the social distance rule is easier to implement , which is practically impossible for children under 6 years of age.
5. Reduce the risk of importing the virus
Reopening borders and airports increases the risk of the virus being imported again by tourists. It will therefore be necessary to test anyone entering the territory. In addition, travelers from a country where the coronavirus is widely used should be quarantined.
6. Adopt new standards, for everyone
In order to prevent the spread of the virus, it is essential that everyone understands and accepts the new standards. People have to adjust their behavior and make sure they don’t get infected or infect others. Social distancing and hygiene rules will therefore apply more than ever, even after confinement.
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