The World Health Organization (WHO) in Cambodia has requested the nation’s Ministry of Health to consider reopening all sectors, especially business activities, after observing a sustainable and well-managed response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

World Health Organization Representative to Cambodia Li Ailan speaks at a press conference. (Source: Khmer Times/Tep Sony)

The local newspaper Khmer Times quoted WHO Representative to Cambodia Li Ailan that safe and sustainable reopening is possible, if well managed.

She highlighted a need to apply a good risk management approach in all sectors, particularly business activities. Individuals need to make right choices on pandemic-prevention measures, she added.

She cautioned, however, that if reopening is rushed without good planning and risk management in place, cases will surge, hospitals are highly likely to become overwhelmed and businesses may close again.

Cambodia on October 11 reported 258 new cases of COVID-19, bringing its total caseload to 115,068. Of the new cases, 16 were imported and the rest were detected in the community.

The country also announced 21 new deaths, pushing its toll to 2,527. The number of recoveries totaled 108,403 so far.

To stem the spread of COVID-19, Cambodia has decided to cancel its water festival, which is due to be held from November 18 to 20.

On the day, the Cambodian Government announced the cancellation of the annual traditional Water Festival 2021, slated for November 18-20, to prevent the spread of the disease.

Source: VNA