As restrictions imposed to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) are eased all over the world, Qatar is gradually beginning to re-open commercial outlets, beaches, parks, restaurants and museums, heritage sites and libraries under the phase 2 of the lifting of restrictions after overcoming the peak stage of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and being successful in flattening the curve.

While there is still much we do not know about COVID-19, Dr. Leslie A. Pal is the Founding Dean of the College of Public Policy, part of Hamad Bin Khalifa University gives an insight into lessons and truth of public policy from the last six months.

Dr. Leslie A. Pal said ‘‘Amid this hopeful sign we also hear of setbacks, spikes, and re-closings in some states and cities that have taught us at least five basic lessons, and one big truth’’. 

‘‘The first lesson is to be clear about what we are dealing with. The case numbers tell us something important, and when cases are increasing, we should rightly be concerned. They tell us about infections, infection rates, and spread, but they also can mislead. The number of cases, for example, is in part an artifact of the number of tests we take. Given the existence of the virus in a population, the more tests you take, the greater the likelihood of discovering cases.’’

Dr. Leslie A. Pal also mentioned that the recent spikes in the case numbers could be due to more tests. 

For the last six months, COVID-19 hit vulnerable populations hardest. Qatar and Singapore have had the world’s highest cases per capita but among the lowest number of deaths. 

The latest statistics from New York State show that people at an age-range of 65-74 years old are three times more likely to die of COVID-19 than those between 45 and 64, and 30 times more likely than those 18-44.  

The point to draw from these lessons is that at this stage of the pandemic when infection and hospitalization curves have been flattened, is not to panic when case numbers occasionally spike.

He mentioned that not to be complacent particularly during re-opening. The medical science on COVID-19 is revealing more about its incidence and effects on different organs, as well as modes of care, even without drugs, that can alleviate symptoms.

 As people are understandably impatient to get back to restaurants, parks, performances, classes, and family gatherings Dr. Leslie A. Pal said that this phase should not be misunderstood as an overnight return to “ new normal ’’ explaining the situation occurred in some American states like Texas and California about how the results occurred when governments moved too quickly, and populations ignored common sense.

He said ‘‘The re-opening phases will be with us for many more months, and we should realistically expect to continue social distancing and other preventive measures’’ 

Here's everything you need to know about the virus, including ways to protect yourself.

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Source and cover image credit: Hamad Bin Khalifa University