|
 In
its latest Strategy Update, the U.N. agency said that the world
stands at a "pivotal juncture" in the pandemic and that "speed,
scale, and equity must be our guiding principles" when deciding what
measures are necessary.
Every country should implement comprehensive public health measures
to maintain a sustainable steady state of low-level or no
transmission and prepare its surge capacity to react rapidly to
control any spread, the WHO said.
Some of the countries hardest-hit by the virus are now considering
lifting lockdowns and beginning the transition toward a resumption
of normal life. The WHO update said any such steps should be taken
gradually, with time to evaluate their impact before new steps are
taken.
"To reduce the risk of new outbreaks, measures should be lifted in a
phased, step-wise manner based on an assessment of the
epidemiological risks and socioeconomic benefits of lifting
restrictions on different workplaces, educational institutions, and
social activities...," the WHO said.
"Ideally there would be a minimum of 2 weeks (corresponding to the
incubation period of COVID-19) between each phase of the transition,
to allow sufficient time to understand the risk of new outbreaks and
to respond appropriately," it added.
[to top of second column] |
It warned that the "risk of re-introduction and resurgence of the disease will
continue".
The Geneva-based global health organisation issued its advice at a time when it
has come under criticism from the United States for its initial response to the
pandemic. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday Washington, the WHO's biggest
donor, would suspend funding.
China has begun lifting some of the toughest restrictions imposed on Hubei
province where the disease first emerged at the end of last year. In the United
States, which has the largest number of confirmed cases and deaths, Trump has
jostled with some state governors over who has the authority to begin reopening
U.S. businesses.
European countries have begun small-scale steps to reduce severe lockdowns.
Some Spanish businesses, including construction and manufacturing, have been
allowed to resume, although shops, bars and public spaces are to stay closed
until at least April 26.
Italy, which has the world's second-highest death toll at 21,067, maintained
some tight restrictions on movement, while Denmark, one of the first European
countries to shut down, will reopen daycare centres and schools for children in
first to fifth grades on Wednesday.
(Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Peter Graff)
[© 2020 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.] Copyright 2020 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Thompson Reuters is solely responsible for this content. |
