Locals In China Flock To National Park As Lockdown Ends, But Experts Warn That It’s Not The End Of Pandemic

The main purpose of the Movement Control Order is to flatten the curve of infection and hopefully stopping the Covid-19 pandemic. However, we have to remember that life doesn’t return to normal immediately after the MCO ends. It’s honestly a bit disappointing that China, the country first and most severely hit with the pandemic ignored all social distancing cues the moment the lockdown ended.

After months of lockdown and extreme travel measure, the Chinese government slowly relaxed its restrictions. The people seemingly have forgotten the deadly virus that gripped their nation in fear, flocked local tourist spots. This is how it looked like in the Huangshan mountain park in Anhui province on Saturday, April 4 where THOUSANDS packed the park.

CNN reported that at around 7.48 am, the park authorities had to even issue a notice saying that the park had reached its 20,000 person daily capacity.

Till date, China has recorded 82,641 cases and 3,335 deaths. Even though the government has relaxed its restrictions, Chinese health expert still urges the public to practice caution and social distancing. Zeng Guang, chief epidemiologist with the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, even told that China has not seen the last of this pandemic.

“China is not near the end but has entered a new stage. With the global epidemic raging, China has not reached the end.” 

As for Malaysia, former health DG Tan Sri Dr Ismail Merican informed that all mass gatherings should be avoided for at least six months after the MCO. He took the liberty to inform the public that some experts even suggest a year but it all comes down to people and self-discipline.

It’s disheartening and maybe even a little scary to see the people of China immediately crowding tourist spots despite the pandemic still posing an obvious threat. Please remember to still follow hygiene measures and social distancing cues even the MCO is lifted.