Reducing COVID-19 infections and deaths requires a multifaceted approach

COVID -19 infections and related deaths have been steadily increasing for several months under the PPP/C Government because it has failed to implement effective and fundamental strategies in slowing the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The world has effectively used lockdown measures in the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the Vice President is hell bent on denying Guyanese of one, thus he falsely claimed that lockdowns do not work. This government is obviously fooling around with our lives. It also appears that this government is hoping to achieve herd immunity through infections in the population amid a high infection rate in the absence of lockdowns and an uneven vaccination program where there is a chronic shortage of vaccines. Under such dynamics, the virus is allowed to multiply and mutate. At the very least, the current COVID problem needs a government that creates an environment that slows the spread of the virus in protecting lives and in preventing mutations. This is key. Further, it needs to be pointed out that vaccines save lives but vaccines alone cannot reduce the number of COVID cases amid mutations. Lock downs may still be necessary for a long time to come.

Our country also needs the technology in identifying the SARS-CoV-2 variants. And because of a lack in technology, we remain blind to the genetic identity of the variants and thus the corresponding clinical profile each variant presents. This is bad science and it costs lives. Further, as observed in Israel, over 50% of adults involved in an outbreak with the Delta variant (B.1.617.2) were fully vaccinated. The Delta variant has now spread to over 100 countries and it has forced extended lock downs. But for the Guyanese Government, lockdowns do not work. The Guyanese Government is unique. People will distrust the Guyanese government for its stance and this will also have a negative impact on our economy. So, I do not understand what Mr. Jagdeo is hoping to achieve. In sum, government needs to appreciate that the sky-high COVID-19 infections and deaths will only be reduced through a consistent and reliable multifaceted approach that simultaneously tackles the COVID problem with lockdowns, physical distancing, facial masking, good hygienic practices, contact tracing and vaccinations to list a few. And with this approach, it is guaranteed that the unnecessary COVID-19 infections and deaths will be reduced along with a climate for reduced mutations. We are appealing to the PPP/C Government to change its course and take the COVID-19 problem seriously. This will be good for our country. Further, we are thankful for the complete lock down by the APNU/PNC Government. This saved lives. And, kudos to the APNU/PNC!

Sincerely,

Annie Baliram