The coronavirus is now in our country with at least one confirmed infected and many more under suspicion of being infected. Panic mainly due to lack of information is happening and with poor health-care system and slow government response, there is a need for civil society to take part in the education and knowledge-sharing campaign as well as provide immediate assistance to individuals who show sign of being infected.
The coronavirus is confirmed to be present in the country with 1 confirmed death and several suspected of being infected. Panic is now happening in the towns and cities aggravated by the lack of timely and adequate communication. People resort to panic-buying especially face masks and food items. The situation is made more difficult with thousands of overseas workers and seafarers coming and going that may easily spread the virus. Government health care facilities is also inadequate.
There is an urgent need to educate the public and provide relief support to those who is suspected to be infected. Education about prevention and self-care is very urgent. Civil society like ourselves work in local communities and will be more effective in providing support to our constituents.
The virus is spreading and there is a need to provide proper education and support especially to very poor communities with inadequate health services. Time to act is now and with improved health and well-being of residents, means improvement also of their communities.
