UNITED NATIONS, Mar 16 (APP): UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has assured the world that the COVID-19 virus will peak, and the global economy will recover but, until then, “we must act together to slow the spread of the virus and look after each other”.
In the face of a health crisis unlike any other in our lifetimes, the Secretary-General said in a video message that it is natural to feel anxious, worried and confused. The most vulnerable in society are also the most affected, and the social and economic fallout will affect most of us for months to come.
However, “This is a time for prudence, not panic. Science, not stigma. Facts, not fear”, Guterres said.
The pandemic can still be controlled, preventing infections and saving lives, but it will take “unprecedented personal, national and international action”, he added.
This will involve putting effective containment strategies into place; activating and enhancing emergency response systems; dramatically increasing testing capacity and care for patients; readying hospitals, and developing life-saving medical interventions.
The crisis, Guterres said, has shown the importance of international cooperation, with governments working together to revitalize economies, expand public investment and ensure support for the most vulnerable.
NS ISB
