An orderly return to normal best for Hong Kong
- Public health must not be compromised with the easing of restrictions in a society that longs to put the coronavirus outbreak behind it
Hong Kong is gradually returning to normal. Transit services at the airport will resume from Monday, schools are reopening in phases and more entertainment venues are back in business.
They are testimony to our concerted efforts in fighting the novel coronavirus over the past four months. While the lifting of remaining restrictions, such as border control measures and the eight-person rule on public gatherings, is only a matter of time, vigilance must prevail at all times.
Reviewing the epidemic situation in an article earlier this week, Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor rightly said it was not yet time to let our guard down.
Even though we have seen no new local infections for most of the month, the outbreak of a small cluster – a family of three in Tsuen Wan – of unknown origin underlines the risk of undetected transmission in society. The reopening of schools and entertainment venues, such as karaoke lounges and party rooms, will put the city further to the test.
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Chinese respiratory disease expert Zhong Nanshan praises Hong Kong's Covid-19 response
The threat from the global pandemic is reflected in the spiralling infection and death tolls in some regions. As people continue to return from infected zones from overseas, the first line of defence at the airport must be maintained.