Are you concerned about a new wave of Covid-19?

Health officials have voiced concern about a possible new wave of Covid infections after 86 people tested positive for the virus in a single day on July 27. Medics say case numbers could increase further if members of the public ignore the guidelines on Covid control. Vientiane Times asked around to gauge people’s opinion of the situation.

Ms Somphon Phanthachit, a resident of Vientiane province: Today, doctors are working hard to deal with the surge in the number of dengue fever cases. Most hospitals do not have enough beds and I don’t know what will happen if there’s another outbreak of Covid. I think we should all do a lot more exercise to strengthen our immunity and stay healthy. It’s important to keep everything clean when cooking, drinking and eating. We should also wash our hands frequently to avoid flu germs and bacteria. If you get the flu, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. And it’s important that everyone complies with public health guidelines. Everyone should understand how to protect themselves against infections.

Ms Soulina, a resident of Bokeo province: It seem no one is paying attention to Covid any more and most people don’t bother to wear a face mask when they go out. I think it’s the duty of everyone to work together to deal with this problem. Everyone should cooperate with the authorities and continue to practice virus prevention measures. We should always wear a face mask every time we go out and ensure that we wear it correctly. We should also wash our hands regularly too. I urge everyone to consider the dangers posed by a potentially deadly virus and do everything possible to stay safe and reduce the risk of illness, as well as the burden on medical staff.   

Mr Ped, a government official in Savannakhet province:  We can reduce the risk of an infection or spreading it by washing our hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and avoiding touching our face, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. If possible, you should clean and disinfect surfaces that you frequently touch, and cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Then throw away the tissue and wash your hands, and avoid close contact with people who are ill.
 
Mr Bounmy Bounphithilad, a resident of Luang Prabang province:  It seems certain that the number of Covid cases is increasing. This has happened because most people ignore the guidelines on Covid control. I think we should do more to protect ourselves and adapt to a new normal way of life. I try to wash my hands with soap, wear a face mask, and maintain social distancing when I go out, and avoid crowded places to protect both myself and other people. It is the duty and responsibility of all of us to unite in the fight against this virus.
 
Ms Kham Phommaly, a resident of Vientiane province:  I have heard about this and it’s bad news for us and our country, especially medical staff. This should be a reminder that we must continue with the prevention measures advised by the authorities. We should try to change our behaviour and get used to the “new normal” to ensure that no one else falls victim to the virus. Everyone needs to be on their guard so that they’re protected.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update July 29, 2022)