The Virus Will Eventually Penetrate Our Country: Hovsep Khurshudyan

Hovsep Khurshudyan, a member of the "Heritage" party, wrote on his Facebook page: "I am simply amazed at how many brave Armenians on Facebook are accusing us 'panic-mongers' for raising alarms where there is supposedly nothing to worry about. They claim that due to some fake virus, you want to ruin relations with 'our age-old friend.' But I also knew that preventive measures against the pandemic's penetration into our country are signs of responsibility. It turns out they are seen as cowardice. I also understood that rapidly spreading viruses can wreak havoc no less than biological weapons. It seems this only applies to China, while in Armenia, some Facebook warriors believe they can tear apart any virus molecule by molecule.

Anyway, it is good that the border with Iran has finally been closed. Let’s leave the brave Facebook Armenians to resonate with the proud echoes of the 'Armenian Heroes' song, while we cowards think about our next steps. For example, it is essential to urgently ban the export of face masks (or should we say protective gear) from Armenia (if there are still any left) and conversely—try to tap into foreign markets, no matter how expensive, to purchase and import large batches of these. This especially refers to N-95 masks (see comments).

Thank you to Narek Veranyan for the consultation. Additionally, scenarios should be developed for the synchronized operation of state institutions in case of virus penetration. It is crucial to stockpile or order medications that are somewhat effective against this virus and disinfectants for residential and public areas. Epidemiologists should start providing advice to citizens on television from now on. During the prevention phase, combating any virus is most effective. The virus will eventually penetrate our country.

Complex, coordinated, precise, and clear actions from state institutions will instill confidence in citizens and allow us to avoid panic. Conversely, haphazard, reactive post-factum measures will lead to panic. To all those who 'comfort' others by claiming that the mortality rate from the virus is 'only' 2-3 percent, I want to remind you that for our country, that means 60,000-90,000 people. And the spread of the virus is still unclear in terms of when and how it will be halted. Therefore, during the prevention phase, we must do everything possible to ensure that it penetrates our country as late as possible, and in case of penetration, spreads as slowly as possible. The treatment also needs to be as effective as possible.

As for the brave Facebook users, they will still have the opportunity to show their courage in real life. The priority should be to resolve the issue of obtaining sufficient protective gear, at least for the staff of relevant healthcare institutions.