Decisive but calm action
THE government’s decision to ban cruise ship visits and to impose mandatory self-isolation for international arrivals signals a major escalation in the state and national response to the global coronavirus pandemic. The changes mirror closely those announced by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern the day before.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s announcement is a sign of how seriously governments are taking the advice of medical experts — despite the disruption it will inevitably occur as a result.
A national ban on gatherings of more than 500 people comes into effect today; a precautionary approach which has seen the cancellation of major events nationwide, from the Sydney Easter show to Dark Mofo, and has placed a question mark over Anzac Day commemorations.
Mr Morrison warned people to prepare for disruptions to their normal lives “over the next six months or so” which is the clearest sign the nation has had that this crisis will not be over any time soon.
Premier Peter Gutwein issued a cruise ship ban of his own yesterday, and signalled further measures were likely to be announced during the week in a bid to contain the virus and “flatten the curve” of new infections in Tasmania. Hospitals have been put on elevated levels of alert and the Director of Public Health will hold daily briefings from today. An economic stimulus package is just a day or two away.
GOVERN-MENTS ARE NOT THE ONLY ACTORS IN THIS FIGHT. SWIFT AND SENSIBLE PRECAUTIONS CAN BE TAKEN BY ANYONE.
It is clear from experience overseas, that responding quickly and decisively is the key to slowing the spread for this virus.
Some commentators have pointed out that the best reaction may appear in hindsight to have been an overreaction if it contains the spread of the virus well.
Hopefully, the measures which have been put in place, and will continue to be put in place, will have just such an effect.
Responding to the coronavirus poses a tough challenge for governments. Obviously, for public health reasons, there is a need to make sure the response is timely and proportionate. But there is also a need to limit as far as possible the social and economic impact of the virus.
Yesterday’s announcement spells serious disruption for Tasmania: the university, in particular, and the state’s travel industry will feel the effects of the travel restrictions.
But this threat is unlike anything this nation has faced in peacetime. Govern-ments are not the only actors in this fight. Swift and sensible precautions can be taken by anyone.
Already many in the community have taken action to prepare for and adapt to the impact of coronavirus. Some are working from home and many have cancelled travel plans. It is sensible to be concerned — but not panicked — about the virus. Staying well informed via credible sources of information is a good first step; social media can be a source of both baseless rumour and anxiety. Heed the advice of medical authorities. Ensure your household is prepared, don’t hoard supplies, and check in on those who might need help. This is not just a job for governments alone — we all have a part to play in helping to contain the spread of this pandemic.
Responsibility for all editorial comment is taken by the Editor, Jenna Cairney, Level 1, 2 Salamanca Square, Hobart, TAS, 7000