By: Patrick Martin
Part 1 — 24 April 2020
Residents of St. Kitts and Nevis have to become accustomed to living with COVID-19. A safe and effective vaccine could be 12 to 18 months away, if at all. Before then, restrictions have to be lifted to prevent tsunamis of depression, hunger, anger and social unrest. Of all the restrictions to be lifted, border re-opening has the highest risk. There will be a second wave of virus importation, in-country spread, and the possibility of high levels of illness, and strained health and social care services.
WHO has recommended criteria for lifting restrictions. They are sound but not novel. In essence, each country should ensure they have well-resourced capacities to detect, contact trace, contain, test, treat, protect the most vulnerable, and effectively communicate.
Consequently, St. Kitts and Nevis’ second wave plan should prioritize the maximum strengthening of health protection, health promotion, and prevention services. They include border control, surveillance, comprehensive testing, government facility for quarantine, workplace safety and health, and the social safety net, particularly essential food and medicine supplies, and psychological wellness.
COVID-19 is a major health and economy issue. A truly national response is one led by an all-party, whole-of-society body. If mobilized now, the immediate strategic objective should be to design and execute a homegrown plan for social and economic stability for the next 3 to 6 months.
Businesses can operate from dawn to dusk subject to owner-enforced physical distancing measures. Farmers and fishers must get back to work. Psychologically, citizens need a break from the bad news networks, and enjoy physical activities and light moments again, all hygiene and distancing protocols observed.