Editorial | Cautious approach best against virus

As clarified by the government, the free voluntary tests are to help identify asymptomatic sufferers in the community rather than certify Hong Kong as a city clear of the virus. Similarly, the much-touted health code system is aimed at easing cross-border travel rather than reviving domestic economic activities.

Regrettably, some of the public have failed to grasp the concept, and they have called for a system that gives those who test negative unrestricted access to shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment venues. While a similar scheme is in place on the mainland, experts have swiftly dismissed the proposal as unfair and one that gives a false sense of security. As not everyone is expected to undergo the test and negative results are no guarantee against future infection, such a scheme would encourage crowds to gather and undo all the good work that has been done.

The government is reportedly inviting tenders to develop an app for voluntary use to help trace those in contact with coronavirus sufferers. This will involve users having their whereabouts registered so those who have visited infected sites may be identified for follow-up action. The idea is worthy of consideration. But as with the universal testing scheme, there needs to be strict privacy protection.

The battle ahead may well be plagued by more rumours and misconceptions. However, every step must be carefully thought through to avoid the situation from worsening.