Covid taskforce calls for full compliance with lockdown rules

The National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control on Thursday urged authorities and the general public to continue to comply with the Prime Minister’s Order on virus prevention, as the total number of infections rose to 1,177.
People in some areas of the country are not following the government’s guidelines, which is resulting in the spread of the virus, an official said.
The taskforce has urged authorities to closely monitor the implementation of the Order to ensure its effectiveness and public compliance with the lockdown rules.

On Thursday, 105 new cases of Covid-19 were reported and the highest number of new infections was reported in Bokeo with 72.
Vientiane reported 15 new cases; while 12 more were reported in Champassak, two in Savannakhet, two in Vientiane provinces, and two in Phongsaly. 101 people have now recovered from virus infections and 1,177 people are in quarantine or health facilities.
According to the taskforce, 3,596 virus tests were conducted in the past 24 hours.
Deputy Director General of the Health Promotion Department under the Ministry of Health, Dr Panom Fongmany, on Thursday commented on the provision of vaccines and advised authorities at every level to continue to monitor people’s movements and ensure that no one leaves their house unless absolutely necessary.
Taskforce members say there are still a number of people disobeying the lockdown rules and driving around Vientiane.
Bokeo province saw a surge in cases, with the total now reaching 205, of which many were recorded in Tonpheung district.
The outbreak has spread through 15 provinces, with only Attapeu, Xaysomboun, and Huaphan remaining virus-free.
The taskforce said new strains of Covid-19 can affect everyone, including young children and older people.
Meanwhile, police and military personnel are stepping up border patrols to prevent people from entering Laos illegally.
Local authorities have been urged to monitor border crossings to prevent people entering Laos illegally from Thailand, to stem the spread of Covid-19 after a recent widespread outbreak in that country.
Health officials urge anyone who believes they have come into contact with an infected person to self-isolate for 14 days.
Laos’ 56 quarantine centres now house 3,496 people, according to Dr Phouthone Muongpak.
The first two cases of Covid-19 were reported on March 24, 2020.

By Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
(Latest Update May 7, 2021)