Easing of ‘Circuit Breaker’ - Phase 2

Phase 1 of the ‘Circuit Breaker’ / Lockdown, was supposed to end at the end of June. However, the number of new infections has been in the single digit, and the situation continues to look encouraging. The efforts and costs in containing the spread of the virus seem to have worked. As such, our government has decided to bring forward the easing of ‘Circuit Breaker’ Phase 2, to the 19th of June (tomorrow).

So, what is involved in opening of Phase 2? In Phase 2, F&B dine-ins, sports facilities and shops can re-open, but with safety measures in place. All schools will reopen. Social gatherings of up to five people will be allowed, but people should still stay at least 1 meter apart from one another, where possible. Over time, the capacity limits will increase, if the situation remained stable. For the moment, larger pubic venues with high human traffic and stand alone malls will have capacity limits. Wearing a mask is still mandatory.

Phase 2 of the opening will be adjusted as we go along. It will be a process of review, monitoring, easing and/or tightening – depending on the number of new cases. The government will be very cautious, and the move is generally welcomed and supported.

Kudos to New Zealand for being the first country to be Covid-19 free. Unfortunately, they had two imported cases since, and they slipped-up in managing these two cases. They were not quarantined and tested before they were allowed to travel. So these two might start another wave of Covid-19 if they are still infectious.

There is fear of another wave of Covid-19 in Peking after an outbreak at a food market. However, they had moved quickly to contain it, and given their previous experience, they should be able to contain the virus very quickly this time.

It just goes to show how easy it is to start another wave of infections. There is no room for complacency.

The number of Covid-19 infections has crossed the eight million line, and has claimed over 450,000 lives. Unfortunately, except for a few countries which have managed to contain the virus, most of the world is still reeling from this pandemic.

We have to be prepared that the virus is likely going to be around for a while longer than we thought. Meanwhile, stay safe!

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