Laos sets three-part approach to combat spread of Covid-19
THE Lao government is rolling out three specific approaches to prevent the spread of Covid19, namely the lockdown of the capital Vientiane, tracking of new cases, and requiring everyone to comply with preventive measures such as the wearing of face masks, social distancing, handwashing and getting vaccinated.
The three-pronged approach was outlined by Deputy Minister of Health, Associate Professor Dr Phouthone Muongpak, at a daily media briefing recently.
He said the lockdown in Vientiane became essential after numerous people contracted the virus and it began to spread rapidly. The lockdown was aimed at stopping the spread the virus until it was contained, he said, and was intended to ensure that no one entered or left Vientiane, especially people attempting to enter illegally.
The second approach is to identify and test all those at risk of contracting the virus, to quarantine certain individuals and provide treatment for those who are unwell, Dr Phouthone said.
He said the third approach to tackling the spread of the virus is aimed at preventing people from meeting up and from transmitting the virus to others through compliance with hygiene measures, as well as being vaccinated.
The number of people contracting Covid-19 in Vientiane continues to increase and more cases have surfaced in the provinces of Champasak, Savannakhet, Xekong, Bokeo, Oudomxay, Luang Prabang, Phongsaly, Xayaboury and Vientiane.
Everyone is urged to be on their guard, to stay at home, and avoid meeting other people.
The Ministry of Health and other government bodies are setting up makeshift hospitals in various parts of Vientiane to ensure that everyone infected with Covid-19 has access to healthcare.
Mittaphab, Mahosot and 103 hospitals will be used to treat those who need specialised care in Intensive Care Units. The health ministry has asked all hospitals to increase their intensive care capacity to prepare for a possible rise in more severe cases.
The government will begin using temporary facilities to accommodate patients when hospitals reach their capacity. The goal is to provide an extra 500 beds.
Two temporary hospitals are planned at the Lane Xang indoor stadium in Don Koy village and at the Lao Football Federation in Huayhong village. Authorities are also considering a plan for patients with mild or no symptoms to be accommodated in quarantine centres.