Editorial | Think twice before stepping outside amid Hong Kong quarantine orders
- Those who break quarantine orders must face full force of the law and concerted efforts by all are needed to keep coronavirus infections to a minimum
Observing the government’s compulsory home isolation order is not just a civic and legal duty, it is a key defence against the latest wave of Covid-19 infections amid a worsening global pandemic.
But with no fewer than 10 quarantine breakers found in two days since the city extended health control measures for residents returning from overseas, the authorities must get tougher.
The outrage caused by a viral video showing a girl with a quarantine wristband eating out at a restaurant on Monday underlines the severity of the matter. Hers was not the only case involving those wearing such wristbands.
A woman was also seen at a supermarket in Whampoa, and a man with a fever was caught eating out with friends in Tsuen Wan.
Those forced to self-isolate may think going out for a meal is not a big deal but, as the health crisis deepens, few can say for sure they are virus-free. To err on the side of caution is both wise and responsible.
The naming and shaming on social media of quarantine breakers has been seen by some as vigilantism, but the response sends a strong message that there is no room for such irresponsible behaviour in society.