Last week, the UAE saw the daily number of Covid-19 cases rise to more than 400 for the first time since July. It brought the total number of cases in the country to almost 67,000 and fatalities to over 370. And although close to 60,000 patients have recovered thus far, the recent spike in cases is a cause for concern. It also serves as an urgent reminder that, even as authorities gradually open up the national economy, all of the requisite measures put in place to contain the spread of infection will have limited effect without individual responsibility.
Some of these measures include comprehensive testing, temperature checks at the border as well as in public places, more regulated air travel and compulsory quarantine for those testing positive or – in Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates – returning from their travels. The UAE has also created systems necessary to support healthcare workers so that no sick person, regardless of their background or health insurance policy, is left unattended.
With such robust measures and facilities put in place, it is up to individuals, families and businesses to do their part by taking care of themselves and those around them, especially as movement restrictions ease. Inevitably, any relaxation of restrictions will require greater vigilance.
There are several factors to guard against that could precipitate further waves of infection. The pandemic has no doubt been an emotional rollercoaster. It is understandable for people who have been through the experience of lockdowns, greater financial strain and distance from friends and family to seek the pleasures that life has to offer, especially on weekends and public holidays. Yet not adhering to precautionary measures during social interactions means risking all the progress that has been made.
As the international community and researchers here in the Emirates make progress towards a vaccine, it is easy to feel as though the threat posed by Covid-19 is diminished. As things stand, however, there is no vaccine or guaranteed cure available. Society’s main line of defence is still to take the precautions needed to stay safe and healthy, including regularly sanitising oneself, wearing a face mask while in proximity to others and maintaining social and physical distancing measures.
Misinformation, meanwhile, has also played a role in distorting the public response to health guidance from experts. False narratives spreading through social media and personal networks, whether they drive complacency or panic, are equally harmful. It is vital that people instead rely on public health authorities, responsible media and accredited experts for accurate information.
The recent rise in cases has given authorities pause. Dr Saif Al Dhaheri, spokesman for the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, has said that if cases continue to rise, orders to stay at home could be reinstated in some parts of the UAE. Those not obeying also risk being fined – from Dh3,000 for not wearing a face mask or physically distancing, to Dh50,000 for failing to adhere to mandated home quarantine.
Over the coming weeks and months, a return to stricter measures may be necessary. It may not. In either case, the experience can only be made easier, the economic hardship can only be mitigated and the emotional and physical toll can only be made lower if we are all truly in this together.
