The Government’s spokesman made the clarification concerning the Prime Minister’s newly issued Directive No. 16/CT-TTg on urgent solutions to prevent and combat COVID-19. Under the directive, the PM ordered a 15-day period of nationwide social distancing starting 00:00 on April 1, with the principle of every household, village, commune, district and province going into self-isolation.
Depending on the evolution of the disease, the Government will issue recommendations and requirements at suitable levels, Dung said, stating that a detailed preparation and roadmap is needed to effectively implement solutions in response to the epidemic.
“These are the preparatory commands, recommendations and restrictions made by the Government leader, not yet a ban,” the official explained. He emphasised that the Government has been well-prepared for every disease scenario.
According to Dung, the Government still allows factories and workshops to continue operating, but asks offices, State administrative agencies and companies to let employees work from home through the application of information technology.
Explaining why a lockdown order has not yet been imposed, he said that the Government is still in control of the situation, so it is necessary to ensure daily routines, production and socio-economic activities.
Regarding the request not to gather in groups of more than two people outside state offices, hospitals and schools, and in public places, Dung said that it sends a strong message that people should stay at home during the peak period and avoid going out and gathering in groups of many people, as the epidemic situation is now different from a few days ago.
“If we miss this golden opportunity, the situation will be much more complicated and difficult. The Government understands that, with the aforementioned requirements, people and businesses may find them uncomfortable, but we hope everyone will comply, as the COVID-19 fight requires the consensus of all levels from the central to local levels, and especially the consensus and joint efforts of the people,” he added.
