Rush to normality in Hong Kong may prove costly
- There are still undetected Covid-19 transmission chains in society, and any steps to ease restrictions must be carefully weighed against economic loss and health risks
Fighting the epidemic has always been a balancing act. On one hand, the Hong Kong government is under growing pressure from bars, karaoke lounges and mahjong parlours to lift the months-long ban on their operation.
On the other hand, experts have warned of a possible resurgence in Covid-19 infections as people enjoyed a hard-earned respite during the Easter holiday. The delicate situation continues to put the government to the test.
The hunger strike by individuals from restricted businesses is a sorry reminder that the city is not out of the woods yet. As citizens flocked to swimming pools and beaches that reopened late last week, thousands of pubs, karaoke lounges and mahjong parlours remain closed because of the perceived higher health risks associated with these premises.
According to industry representatives, at least half of the 1,400 licensed bars are in danger of going down, affecting the livelihood of tens of thousands of workers.
Whether the recent downward infection trend is safe enough for further relaxation is a matter for the government and medical experts to decide. Experience shows that there are good reasons to be cautious.