By Hseng Leng/SHAN

Despite the threat of contracting COVID-19, many are carrying on as normal and not adhering to health guidelines implemented to keep everyone safe, said some northern Shan State residents.

After the infection rate was reduced in the town of Muse, residents have stopped taking precautions to prevent contracting the virus by wearing face masks when they go outside, Thaung Tun, from Muse Township Garuna Social Team, told SHAN.

Sai Myat Aung said restaurants are starting to open up again. Many people travelling around the town don’t seem to be concerned about catching the virus, he said. “I’m still very worried about it.”

To prevent more outbreaks, health officials are advising everyone to continue washing their hands and wearing face masks when in public areas.

Since the first transmission was discovered in Burma in late March, there’s been 33 confirmed cases reported in the town located next to the Chinese border. Almost everyone has recovered, with only one patient left receiving treatment at the Muse Public Hospital. Dr Han Naing Soe, head of the hospital, told SHAN their health is good.

According to Muse Township Garuna Social Team, 47 are staying in a quarantine facility in the town.

In Lashio, 17 transmissions have been detected, with only 7 active cases left, Dr Nyan Myint, head of Lashio Public Hospital, told SHAN. 

Since the pandemic began, there have been 84 confirmed cases in northern Shan State. Of those, 58 recovered and one died of the disorder.

The Ministry of Health and Sports reported 92,189 confirmed cases in Burma on December 1, while 71,343 have recovered and there’s been 1,972 deaths.