Mexico is ready to reopen amid a surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths

Wuhan

, the Chinese city that became the epicenter of COVID-19 , partially reopened 77 days after it imposed quarantine measures. Spain imposed a quarantine on March 14; it’s been 78 days and the government asked Congress to extend the measure until June 21.

In Mexico , physical distancing measures were implemented 70 days ago and now the country is starting to lift some restrictions and resume some economic activities . Is it too soon? In contrast with Wuhan and Spain, it seems like yes; moreover, official numbers might suggest this is not the right time to reopen the country.

The number of contagions hasn’t lowered in the last 9 days: 3,000 new cases every 24 hours, on average. Deaths are almost at 10,000. Mexico is entering a new phase based on a scheme that classified 31 out of 32 states with an elevate d risk of contagion .

In Mexico City, informal commerce has resumed. This weekend, Tepito reopened and large crowds were spotted in the area.

Recommended: Mexico is among the 10 countries with the highest COVID-19 death tolls

At the same time, several local governments issued new measures to try and adopt a “ new normal, ” which includes reopening businesses, companies, and public places.

On May 31, Dr. Hugo López-Gatell warned that if authorities and society don’t follow preventive measures, there could be another COVID-19 outbreak . Wouldn’t it be better to maintain strict physical distancing measures ?

This new stage is starting amid confusion. It seems like authorities are trying to adjust the public health emergency with political times to launch several government projects.

The best would be to maintain and intensify physical distancing measures and quarantine since the country is facing a critical stage in the pandemic . If things get worse, who will be to blame?

Recommended: COVID-19 Live Updates: Mexico

gm