Now that Guyana has an additional three cases of the Coronavirus, bringing the total to eight, some observers are of the view that it is time for the authorities of the day to augment their measures to contain the deadly virus which has become a global pandemic. In fact, many Guyanese are of the view that a country-wide lockdown is needed.
But Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), Dr. Karen Boyle categorically states that if everyone plays their part, such an extreme provision would not be necessary.
During an exclusive interview moments ago, Dr. Boyle said that by and large, the business community has been cooperating with the Ministry of Public Health in its efforts to contain the spread of the virus. The DCMO acknowledged however that there are some individuals, and in a few cases, entertainment spots which are not adhering to advisories on social distancing. She nonetheless stressed that if businesses continue to do their part by having more areas for sanitization, along with citizens doing what has been advised regarding personal hygiene, “then there would be no need for a shutdown.”
The official added, “There may come a time where we may have to look at that but I am hopeful that we will continue to get support from the businesses and the citizenry.”
Further to this, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer was asked if she would support recommendations to have a curfew implemented for Region Four which has the highest concentration of the population. This question was premised particularly on the fact that the Coronavirus cases have jumped to a total of eight. Dr. Boyle said she does not believe this is necessary at this time but noted that “it is something to look at.”
Dr. Boyle was also keen to note that the three new cases underscore the need for social distancing, proper hygiene and keeping the airports closed. These measures she insisted are effective. “This is needed so that we can find and trace all the cases that may have come in and those measures are effective…If the measures are ignored and you still have social gatherings, then other provisions would have to be looked at but that is not my call to make,” the DCMO added.
Thus far, officials in other parts of the country such as Region Ten have imposed a 6 AM to 8 PM curfew on businesses and citizens. Anyone found on the streets after that time would have to answer to the police. That curfew goes into effect tonight.
