SARS-CoV2 infection has increased dramatically and consistently in the WHO’s South-East Asia Region in recent months. In April and May, the region announced more than two million new cases in a row, with some areas reporting test positivity rates of up to 40%.Concerning variants and their sub-lineages have been identified, and they may be linked to higher transmission speeds. In the fight against Covid-19, both the country and the world are at a crossroads. There is no country that is completely secure. We’re all in danger.
People are running out of energy. They’ve been doing whatever they can to keep themselves and their loved ones safe for nearly 18 months. Despite this, we are only in the early stages of the pandemic. Vaccine euphoria and the complacency it can breed are real risks, particularly when some countries return to normalcy globally. We must continue to maintain and scale up the response in all countries, and see this task through.
What is the best way forward for the region?
First, vigorously implement tested public health and social policies that are our best line of defence against new variants. Distancing yourself physically will help. The use of a mask is effective. Hand hygiene is efficient. Ventilation, testing, touch tracking, and isolation are all used to stop the spread of the disease, save lives, and reduce the effects. The 3Ws–wear a mask, wash hands, and keep a safe distance–must continue to be followed. We must also avoid the 3Cs: crowded environments, close-contact situations, and confined and enclosed spaces.
Second, keep an eye on and extend health-care capability to ensure that it can meet population demands, regardless of caseload. In the event of an increase in cases, step-by-step measures must be implemented to increase room, personnel, and equipment –such as oxygen and beds–as well as improve communication between and within facilities. Essential health care must be maintained in order for all to have access to the services they need to remain safe and well.
Third, as described in national deployment and vaccination plans, vaccinate priority classes. In the face of ongoing supply constraints, countries can maximise public health benefits by maximising the use of available doses.
We must push ourselves to the limit and go all out. Since the beginning of the pandemic, WHO has given vital guidance and assistance to member-States throughout the field, including thousands of oxygen concentrators, millions of respirator masks, and a number of auxiliary health facilities in recent months. Thousands of employees have been reassigned to help with the national response. The Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator, which is the world’s quickest, most organised, and active global partnership to accelerate the growth, manufacturing, and equal access to Covid-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines, continues to save lives.
Only by working together and maintaining our commitment will we be able to reduce infection, plan for and deter new waves, and provide evidence-based therapies and technologies to anyone who needs them. It’s a matter of life and death. We must all stick to our weapons.
