PM calls for better public understanding of Covid-19 pandemic

Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has stressed the need to continue to build public understanding of the dangers and effects of the coronavirus (Covid-19) so that people do not ignore the ongoing pandemic.

Mr Thongloun gave the message to deputy prime ministers, ministers, members of the National Taskforce Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control, provincial governors and the mayor of Vientiane during a video conference on Monday.

“All sectors must continue to raise public awareness of the dangers and impacts of Covid-19, especially among people who are in quarantine in their homes, villages or at quarantine centres, so that they fully understand the situation and are not careless,” Mr Thongloun said, adding that everyone must act responsibly for the benefit of themselves, their families, the general public, and the country.

He praised the taskforce committees operating at central and local levels, other bodies and local authorities for carrying out their various duties to combat and address the Covid-19 outbreak in Laos.

During the video conference, participants reported on the implementation of Prime Minister’s Order No. 6 on measures to stop the spread of the virus, related government resolutions, measures proposed by the taskforce committee, facilitation, difficulties and changes, and future measures proposed by various sectors and the provinces.

Some of the challenges include the shortage of medical equipment and medication, face masks and hand gel, the limited number of medical personnel, and designated places for quarantine and isolation.

The prime minister highlighted the fact that although the country’s borders are closed and foreigners may not enter Laos, freight is allowed in under strict management.

Concerning people who are in self-isolation at home due to overcrowding at quarantine centres, Mr Thongloun said they must exercise firm discipline so they don’t transmit the virus to other family members or anyone else.

He instructed central authorities to distribute donated items such as face masks, hand gel, and alcohol sanitiser to the provinces so they can be given to local people, especially in remote provinces that face a shortage. He encouraged further sourcing of aid and donations of medical equipment and medication for use in provincial hospitals.

Mr Thongloun ordered the taskforce committee to obtain more medical supplies, saying this should be done transparently and without speculation.

Vientiane and the provinces have stressed the need for price controls and the continued availability of goods to ensure food security, alongside permission to travel to farms and undertake other production activities, as well as other business, which depends on the consideration of local authorities in complying with the PM’s Order No. 6.

The prime minister said the transportation and circulation of goods within the country was not prohibited, but there should be comprehensive management measures.

He also advised international cooperation, with a focus on assistance for and knowledge-building of Lao medical staff.

The taskforce committee is closely monitoring the spread of Covid-19 in Laos in line with the guidelines laid down by the World Health Organisation and is assessing the situation before providing information to the public.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Thongloun called on all sectors, local authorities, units, and individuals people to share in implementing the PM’s order, and to comply with measures introduced by the government and the taskforce committee to contain the spread of the virus.

By Somxay Sengdara
(Latest Update April 7, 2020)