Kon presents good news about coronavirus epidemic, speaks about possibility of repeat lockdowns

Epidemiologist Doctor Predrag Kon told TV Pink last night, as a guest in the Hit Tvit talk show hosted by Verica Bradic, that he had one piece of good news.

"That curve is flattening in Belgrade as well, which is very good news. Not only in Belgrade, but in the whole of Serbia, but we are still in an unstable situation. But it is the first indicator," said Kon.

He stated that he has the impression that more and more people respect the measure of wearing masks in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

"It's important that we all concentrate on the right opponent. There is an impression that these measures are highly respected," he stated.

Doctor Kon said that there was no way that members of the Crisis HQ participated in presenting incorrect data regarding those infected and, above all, those who died from coronavirus in Serbia.

"That database had its shortcomings and that is something that will be fixed. It is a legal obligation to report infectious diseases and to report the deaths. Unfortunately, that always arrives much later. We are still receiving those reports from late May," the doctor explained.

He pointed out that he strongly denies any report related to the members of the Crisis HQ that alleges their involvement in a conspiracy theory.

"That does not belong to any rational thinking, I completely reject such things with a sense of horror," said Doctor Kon.

We did everything we could

The doctor said that he was surprised by the attacks coming from some people.

"People have the right to think that the worst has been done, I can claim that this is not true. We did everything we could. Those who have been criticized are capable people, very much capable of helping, as well," stated Kon.

Speaking about our healthcare system, the doctor said that it is very elastic and that it is "practically impossible for it to break."

"The way of functioning that has been set ensured that the system would not break," he pointed out and added that people began to cooperate intensively, respecting the adopted measures.

"There is no relaxation in a pandemic. A state of emergency... it is only now that we can see how extremely important that was. We are very slowe down now without a state of emergency," the epidemiologist pointed out.

Asked if there would be more lockdowns, he doctor said:

"You know what, I got burned once when I was convinced that there would be no virus over the summer. I cannot give such predictions after those statements. This will not pass quickly, it will take about four weeks. However, after next week, a change will be noticed," said Kon.

Masks in kindergartens

Doctor Kon stated that the decision has been made for children to wear masks because they both get sick and carry the infection.

"This was discussed at the Crisis HQ. It is not impossible to organize work with children who wear masks," said Kon, adding that the opinion of pediatricians is that children should not be separated in that sense.

The second peak of the first wave

Doctor Kon reiterated that the declaration of a state of emergency had been very important and effective.

"Let it be criticized, but it was effective. What is now being said about deaths will also be resolved... We are currently in the second peak of the first wave, but that is essentially irrelevant, it's a question of terminology ," the doctor pointed out.

The epidemiologist also revealed that he came across offensive behavior towards him in the street.

"It happened twice. People shouted 'Liar!" at me," said Kon.

He also commented on epidemiologist Zoran Radovanovic and whether he would manage to work in his place.

"I think he would. He would have to cooperate with the authorities if he wants to be effective. I think he would act like me," said the doctor.

(Telegraf.rs)