Several countries around the world are lifting the sanitary restrictions implemented due to Covid-19 and Costa Rica could be next.
Mask mandates, curfews and capacity restrictions for businesses, are now a thing of the past for many countries, whose only desire is to leave the pandemic behind and go back to their normal lives.
As Costa Rica navigates the omicron wave, President Carlos Alvarado indicated that the current measures could be eliminated in the next couple of weeks. According to the President, the data suggests the country’s situation is likely to improve, making some restrictions unnecessary.
Additionally, the President pointed out that the hospital capacity is one of the main factors that will be thoroughly analyzed by the group of experts in charge of handling the pandemic. Even though the ICU hasn’t been full- given the outstanding vaccination rate-other general units are being fully occupied, severely affecting the usual patient care.
When asked about the exact date all restrictions would be removed, President Alvarado mentioned “the majority of health measures against Covid-19 will be lifted before the end of the government’s term.”
Nevertheless, there are some growing concerns amongst health experts, regarding the news. Some of the countries that fully lifted their restrictions have experienced a new surge of cases, which worries health professionals.
According to those who have been monitoring the virus closely, the restrictions should be lifted gradually, in order to avoid a new upsurge.
It is very important to note most doctors and scientist are against eliminating the mask mandate in the country and have reaffirmed their importance, especially in crowded and closed areas.
The commerce and tourism sectors have been demanding a real economic reactivation, which they believe will come along with the government’s decision to finally get rid of the restrictions.
Business owners have mentioned several times that removing the sanitary vehicular restriction would allow them to rehire employees and recover from the harsh effects of the pandemic.
Costa Ricans remain cautious, yet optimistic. Although many would still wear masks even if the decree is lifted, there’s hope to return to the life before the pandemic very soon.
