‘Fighting Virus is like Being in a War’

The COVID-19 experience has been likened to being in a war by Lautoka City Council’s Senior Health Inspector, Shalend Prem Singh. Mr Singh, 44, was part of the COVID-19 taskforce team assigned to the Western Division.

“It was like representing our country in a war against invisible enemies not knowing when, how and where the enemies may strike,” Mr Singh said. He said the whole experience also allowed him to grow professionally and personally.

According to Mr Singh, being away from family and not being able to be with his two children was the hardest thing of all.

“It has definitely motivated me to work harder and strive towards changing the hygiene practices of citizens as well as businesses so we prevent similar hardships brought by COVID-19 in future,” he said.

“I had a feeling that this pandemic needed everyone to play their role and give 100 per cent if we are to fight this war.”

It has been a pleasing experience as well for Mr Singh. He said with an external threat it was heartwarming to see the spirit of brotherhood and togetherness.

He said small things like washing hands could be the difference between life and death.

“This COVID-19 has sent a clear message for us all. Most significantly to practise proper personal hygiene that will not only protect us from deadly COVID-19 but many other common communicable diseases linked to poor hygiene practices,” he said. “This is unusual times and I urge all to cooperate by adhering to preventative advisories of the government to ensure a speedy recovery and freedom from COVID-19.”