The  first protocol for the gradual re-opening of Panama businesses will be published on Monday, May 11 said Health Minister Rosario Turner on Saturday, May 9.

Turner said that the post-pandemic ”new normal”  stage  “will include changes in the coexistence model, not only from the social and economic point of view, but also in the new public health policies, to avoid a second wave of COVID-19

The Ministry of Health  (Minsa) roadmap will include processes in epidemiological surveillance and compliance with regulations.

Distancing
Physical distancing will also be necessary; the use of masks and alcohol gel; taking the temperature before entering companies, and teleworking.

“The instructions issued by the Minsa to save lives are not just another option; they are the right path for all Panamanians to preserve the human right to health, "said Turner.

The minister's approaches coincide with those indicated by the World Health Organization (WHO) that society will have to get used to many changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic, at least until a vaccine is found.

Mike Ryan, executive director of the WHO's health emergencies program, said many may currently miss gestures such as shaking hands or hugging, but "you have to remain cautious" knowing the potential for spreading the virus.

Carissa Etienne, director of the Pan American Health Organization, , said that any attempt to transit to more flexible measures in countries where quarantine is a measure to contain the virus will have to be taken with extreme caution and based on information on disease transmission patterns, the ability to perform tests, follow up on contacts and the availability of beds in hospitals.. A hasty decision could  lead to a second outbreak

The epidemiologist and director of the Metropolitan Health Region, Israel Cedeño, stressed that world statistics show that an epidemic,, needs between 8 and 10 weeks to reach the break-even point, but with COVID-19,  due to its high contagion rate, can last up to 12 weeks.