A problem in our midst

YOU could sense the change in Dr James Fong’s tone on Wednesday night when he announced the record 279 new cases of COVID-19. There were also four deaths due to the virus.

We must never downplay the fact that this was to be expected.

The numbers had been growing for a number of days. It had to happen. The huge rise was something we can never shrug aside.

We may wonder about many things now. We may ponder on initial decisions on a national scale. We may question some decisions made by the powers that be.

Sceptics may even wonder about the need for lockdowns, now that this appears not to be the go to solution by the authorities.

Given the specifics and habits of society, we are caged in by different opinions as well.

Does it matter then that we should understand the make-up of various sections of society, traditions and cultures, on top of habits?

The rising numbers are getting out of control it seems.

Again, because we know the incubation period, and the fact that people are still moving around, some of them unnecessarily, we know this is to be expected.

With containment zones extended, and barriers lifted, it was to be expected anyway. The brawl at Raiwaqa the other day further exacerbated the issue of physical distancing and the wearing of masks in public places, and its negative impact on the fight against the virus. It drove through the realisation that some people are simply not heeding advice.

This is the frightening reality of the scenarios on the ground right now.

We expect that while there may be some of us who will not be bothered by the rise in numbers for reasons known only to themselves, the majority of the population will no doubt be gripped by fear and a sense of uncertainty.

This isn’t the way we want things turning out. This isn’t the perfect scenario to launch a return to normality.

Far too many people are not adhering to safety protocols. Far too many people have a laidback attitude that is dangerous.

We are certainly not dealing with the flu here.

We are dealing with an invisible enemy that kills. The question then is how do we rope in these irresponsible people, and empower them to change their attitudes?

How do we embrace such people, and change their mindset?

For those who are adhering to safety rules, thank you.

This isn’t the time to panic.

Let’s stick to the processes that will keep us safe. Let’s adhere to COVID-19 safety rules. Keep good physical distancing. Wear a mask if you must travel outside.

Otherwise, stay home! Protect your loved ones, stay in your bubble. Do not allow anyone from outside to enter your bubble. Call a loved one on the phone if you must, but do not visit them! Let’s do this together Fiji. We look up to the powers that be to make tough calls for the greater good of the nation.