COVID-19 MANAGEMENT

Sir,

Just an observation with regards the general understanding by the citizens of this country as to what COVID-19 is and its consequences, if taken lightly or ignored. The newspapers over the last few days reported in detail with no threat or passion to spare the effect the virus has had on people’s lives, not only locally but also regionally and abroad. Financiers, economists and many other business experts, along with the medical and associated professions, have painted a pretty bleak picture of what is waiting for this country and its citizens if great care is not taken. 

Inflict

The mere suggestion of the devastation this disease is about to inflict upon us all and hot on the heels of a state of emergency declaration by South Africa necessitated the intervention by the Government of Eswatini in the announcement of a partial lockdown. But driving through Matsapha earlier on Tuesday it was business as usual and it is as if no emergency situation or any form of lockdown exists. People wearing masks were few. Traffic congestion was at its normal intensity of a business day in full swing and passing the FNB and Standard Bank complexes I was struck with awe when noticing how motorists were competing vigorously for space in an overcrowded parking lot. Two of the restaurants in the area were still being frequented by faithful clientele and an unprecedented activity of shoppers at the local Spar Supermarket completed an alarming picture. I was just wondering whether or not by following the preventative measures as strictly as we do at home and workplace may well turn out to be a futile exercise.

Non-caring

While all in our power is done to prevent the spread of this dreaded disease in-house, we are being met by a general ‘it won’t happen to us’ and non-caring attitude out there that will threaten the outcome of every measure that has been put in place to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus. And in the final analysis, when this partial lockdown ends without having met its expected and/or desired results and the spread of the COVID-19 virus has spiraled out of control, the loss of human life and detrimental effect on businesses and the economy at large in months to come will be immeasurable. Take great care maSwati, the challenge is yet to come!

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