Countries that are no longer in quarantine

Cebu has been under enhanced community quarantine for over a month now and yet, reported positive cases continue to rise almost every day. If we long of the outside world so much after more than four weeks of home isolation, cooperation among us is needed along with continued efforts from our local government. The dream to safely step foot outside of our homes isn’t a distant reality. If other countries can do it, we can, too. Here are five countries that are embracing the new normal minus a total lockdown.

Taiwan

The country’s early and immediate response to the Covid-19 pandemic prevented a total lockdown and kept its economy running and citizens working. But life without a lockdown in Taiwan looks far from the old normal with permanent adjustments that had to be observed. Despite strict protocols, Taiwan managed to contain the virus with less than 500 cases reported as of this writing.

Canada

With Canada’s well-funded public health care system, an early response to the global pandemic is expected. The country managed to roll out expansive testing and contact tracing from the start that at least minimized the effect of the virus. Now with reports of fewer cases in some provinces, Canada begins a staggered lifting of the lockdown with corresponding restrictions.

New Zealand

It’s good news for New Zealand as it gradually exits from coronavirus lockdown. From the imposed level 4 measures, it’s now down to a level 3. Following more than four weeks of isolation, citizens are already allowed to travel to work and spend more time outside after no widespread or undetected community transmission was reported. But Prime Minister Arden reminds residents to move with caution.

South Korea

Regardless of a major outbreak in late February in the southern city of Daegu, South Korea managed to flatten the infection curve without a nationwide lockdown. The country’s economy and wider society continue to function with social distancing measures, mass diagnostic testing, widespread contact tracing and isolation.

Vietnam

The Land of the Blue Dragon is doing relatively well in containing the coronavirus crisis compared to other Southeast Asian nations. The country lifts nationwide lockdown after it recorded zero deaths and reported low case counts. Since the easing of strict movement and social distancing restrictions, Vietnam allowed residents to resume small gatherings and restarted mass transportation while still observing proper health measures.