Myanmar Covid-19 Cases Travelled To US & UK Respectively
As many countries around the world report cases of the infectious Covid-19, one nation in our region appears to have been spared from the pandemic — Myanmar.
But that ‘immunity’ didn’t last long, as the country had just reported its first 2 cases of Covid-19 on Monday (23 Mar) evening.
Both of them were citizens returning from other coronavirus-hit countries.
Myanmar Covid-19 cases are male citizens aged 26 & 36 years old
According to The Straits Times, the 2 Covid-19 patients are male Myanmar nationals aged 26 and 36.
The former recently returned from the United Kingdom (UK) while the latter returned from the United States (US).
Officials are currently in the process of tracing their close contacts.
Criticised for downplaying Covid-19 outbreak
Prior to this, Myanmar was apparently the world’s most populated country not to have a single case of Covid-19. The country has a population of 54 million.
Even so, the country has reportedly banned “festivals and entertainment events” next month.
However, it has also received criticism from other countries for “downplaying” the outbreak after a Myanmar government spokesperson said it was the citizens “lifestyle and diet” that shielded them from the disease.
Despite its large population, only 214 people have been tested for Covid-19 as of Monday (23 Mar) evening.
Hope Myanmar government will treat Covid-19 outbreak seriously
We hope the Myanmar government will treat the outbreak seriously and provide the 2 patients with medical attention.
As the number of Covid-19 infections rises across the world, let this be a rallying call for all to maintain good hygiene and to exercise safe distancing practices.
Featured image adapted from AA.Â
