A quick chat with the WHO

In an exclusive interview with Banker Middle East, Dr Margaret Harris, spokesperson for the World Health Organisation, shares her thoughts on the the pandemic and the panic it has caused

The WHO declared the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a pandemic. Based on your experience with infectious diseases what is the trend with pandemics? How long do you expect this to last and when would it dial down?

We cannot accurately predict how long this will last. Modelling studies are useful for providing scenarios to assist planning but no one at this stage can give an accurate time frame.

China and Korea have shown that it is possible to slow down and eventually stop new cases by taking strong, committed public health measures—testing to find every case, isolating all people with a case, finding and quarantining all people exposed to someone infected, protecting health workers by increasing capacity of hospitals, increasing number of medical and nursing team as well as providing physical protection, urging physical distancing and clear messaging and efforts to engage the community and gain the commitment of every member of the community.

Singapore took early social distancing measures and used strong effective risk communication to slow their outbreak from the beginning.

In your opinion, what are the best measures authorities can take to manage the situation?

Learn from the countries that are managing their outbreaks successfully.

Some have said the media coverage surrounding COVID-19 has sparked widespread fear and panic. What are your views on this?

It is understandable that people find this a frightening situation and yes, misinformation can exacerbate fear and stimulate panic. Much of this is spread on social media—what we call an ‘infodemic’—and we are working with partners such as Google, Facebook, Instagram etc. to correct and prevent the spread of misinformation.

The vast majority of media professionals and outlets have been wonderful, responsible partners working 24/7 to provide accurate, clear information and for this we thank each and every one.

Dr Margaret Harris

“LEARN FROM THE COUNTRIES THAT ARE MANAGING THEIR OUTBREAKS SUCCESSFULLY.”

— Dr Margaret Harris

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