Frustrated by the long-running disruption to economic and social activities, companies have eagerly resumed office work while shoppers and diners are gradually returning. Teachers and students are also preparing for the reopening of schools in phases, even though class suspensions are to stay until at least April 20. But as medical experts have warned, the Covid-19 pandemic is likely to prevail for some time. Instead of assuming everything will soon return to normal, there is even greater need to take a more critical look at support for the many who have been struggling to cope with the health crisis. The poor are particularly vulnerable. Even though their predicament has been somewhat eased as charity donations rise, many still cannot afford overpriced surgical masks and sanitising products. Their limited access to the internet and social media has also deprived them of timely information and advisories to help them stay alert. The same goes for frontline workers. Some cleaners are known to wear the same mask for days because of an inadequate supply from employers. Their health risks are relatively higher, but they are not given the protection to do their jobs. Coronavirus crisis exposes harsh existence of Hong Kong’s poorest households The situation at schools also warrants closer attention. Although teachers are supposed to conduct classes and give assignments via the internet, it is unrealistic to expect children to be as fully occupied as they are in schools. Online teaching, after all, is still an unusual experience for both schools and students. A recent survey showed more than 70 per cent of parents were worried that children’s learning would be hampered by prolonged class suspensions. While well-to-do families can afford more extracurricular activities in the meantime, the poor may even have difficulties going online, let alone learn effectively. That the underprivileged have been struggling for weeks is to be regretted. This owes much to the government’s approach to save businesses and secure jobs. More than a month and a half has passed since the coronavirus hit the city. Many citizens feel they have been left on their own to cope with the crisis. Government support is far from sufficient and adequately targeted. As the city tries to get back to normal, let’s not overlook the plight of those still struggling.
