[ad_1]
The world has to get used to living with the coronavirus, and countries must begin to think about how to save lives and livelihoods instead of establishing a false dichotomy between the two, an official from the World Health Organization (WHO) said yesterday. ).
Dr Takeshi Kasai, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, noted at a joint meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) and WHO on Covid-19 that it has been debated whether measures taken to stop the spread of the virus are worth the sorrow. Toll.
But the reality is that governments, companies and individuals will have to find ways to allow the disease to be contained and at the same time allow economic activities to return, he said.
This is because as long as the virus continues to circulate anywhere in the world, and before finding an effective vaccine, everyone will be at risk, he said.
“So that’s why I really want to emphasize that it’s time to think about how we live with this virus and reach a new normal.”
He added that “we do not have to choose between life (and) livelihood,” he said that countries in the region have demonstrated how movement control measures can help prevent the spread of the virus on a large scale in the community. This prevents hospitals from being overwhelmed, thus preventing further deaths.
Covid-19 has affected more than four million people worldwide and caused some 300,000 deaths, and these numbers could have been higher had it not been for the established restrictions, he said.
The virus has dramatically changed lives and devastated economies, with countries around the world closing shops and schools, and prohibiting people from leaving their homes.
During the session, moderated by WEF Managing Director Adrian Monck, other participants also discussed the changes the pandemic has brought about.
Grab co-founder Tan Hooi Ling said the transport company has had to have a broader vision of its role in society to work with governments, individuals and non-governmental organizations, as once the crowded streets become Empty and Grab’s drivers’ income falls along with the company’s income.
Warren Fernández, editor-in-chief of English / Malay / Tamil Media Group of Singapore Press Holdings and president of Asia News Network, meanwhile, spoke about how the crisis has highlighted the importance of securing public service information, which is necessary for reason and rational debate on how countries can move forward. Fernández is also the editor of The Straits Times.
Another speaker, Tan Sri Dra. Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria, executive director of the Apec Secretariat, cited the examples of Singapore and New Zealand bringing together like-minded countries to keep supply chains open, emphasizing the importance of countries work together.
Dr. Kasai said that governments play a central role in helping individuals and businesses navigate the new normal, and they must ensure they communicate their approach clearly.
He added that the private sector must also be flexible in conducting business while taking the necessary steps to reduce the risk of infections in the workplace.
“We can work together to shape a new reality with new ways of thinking, living and working. That will make us more secure from Covid-19 and other threats in the future,” he said.
“I know how hard governments in all regions are working to fight the virus and the difficulties it has caused to maintain societies. It is not an easy journey. But I think it is time that we all do our part and work together to realizing a new future. A more caring, stronger and healthier society for all. “
[ad_2]
