ED: We can’t let our guard down now

Experts seem to agree on the fact that winter may bring with it a spike in Covid-19 cases. As we near the end of November, we need to take this warning seriously. As much damage as the coronavirus has done to the country up until now, we need to be ready for the trials ahead. Indeed, just because the lockdowns seen in the early stages of the pandemic are no longer in effect, there is no evidence that says Covid-19 has gone away. Overwhelmed hospital staff and grim death tolls can attest to this fact.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina herself, in a parliament session, has acknowledged the possibility of a winter spike and that a second wave is now being seen in Europe and the US.

It is good to see that the government is indeed taking the threat seriously. Policies in place include a “no mask, no service” policy. Screenings will be conducted at ports of entry to the country, and a 14-day quarantine is mandatory for all who arrive from abroad.

It is regrettable though, that recently many Covid-19 facilities were taken down, as they were not being used. At a time like this, we really need all the help we can get in handling the crisis. Certainly, scaling back to give the illusion that the crisis is over could be disastrous for all.

With hopes of a vaccine on the horizon, we should not fall into despair. Nevertheless, until a vaccine does reach the hands of the masses, letting our guard down would be unwise.