英文

Editorial : HK On Verge of 5th Wave: No Way to Delay Vaccine Bubble Expansion

【明報專訊】APIECE OF BAD NEWS has emerged concerning Hong Kong's pandemic situation, as a case of unknown origin has been reported once again after more than two months. With the Omicron variant suspected to be involved, it is highly likely that the fifth wave of outbreaks is coming. What has happened in other parts of the world shows that those who needed to be hospitalised after being infected by Omicron were mostly unvaccinated. In the face of the threat of a new wave of outbreaks, unvaccinated citizens should get a jab as soon as possible. Those who have completed the vaccination should also receive a third dose before it is too late. The government had originally planned to expand the "vaccine bubble" before the Lunar New Year to boost the vaccination rate. However, as the catering industry was worried that their business during the festival would be affected, the implementation of such measures was delayed until the end of next month, so as to "wait till spring receptions are also held". This again highlights the fact that the authorities are not resolute and decisive enough in fighting against the pandemic—they are too easily swayed by certain groups concerned with their personal interests. In fact, the wish to celebrate the festival by dining outside with one's family can actually be a huge motivation for the unvaccinated elderly people to get jabbed as early as possible. The government should grasp this window of opportunity and expand the vaccine bubble at the end of this month as originally scheduled.

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