The more relaxed pandemic measures have allowed the populace to regain a certain level of freedom missing since the second COVID-19 wave hit a year ago.
However, I would like to caution against pure abandonment of precautions as the daily case numbers have been high as of late.
Since we reached endemicity, certain individuals have gone about their daily lives as though the pandemic is a thing of the past. They don’t test themselves when they exhibit COVID symptoms; instead, continue to mingle with friends and family. Perhaps it explains the recent high numbers.
Brunei is not the only country that has logged a surge in cases; many pockets around the globe have recorded the same trend.
A fourth wave may well be imminent, especially now that more travel restrictions are being lifted and precautionary measures have been ignored by a portion of the population.
The silver lining is that the populace is well-inoculated against the virus, with over 70 per cent triple-dosed. However, the possibility of a dangerous new variant rearing its ugly head should not be dismissed. Until the world declares victory against the pandemic, we must remain vigilant.
As authorities have repeatedly reminded us, it takes a whole nation to keep threats at bay, be it the coronavirus or an economic downturn. With COVID-19 continuing to wreak havoc across the globe, it is best to keep in mind that prevention is always better than cure.
The Observer
