[Global Insight] Is it too soon to be easing lockdowns and social distancing?

코로나19 봉쇄 완화 움직임에 소폭 상승We begin an in-depth discussion with two experts on the global coronavirus pandemic.Several European countries have started to ease restrictions this week, with Germany, Austria, Denmark and the Czech Republic among those allowing certain businesses to reopen. Even Italy and Spain,... two countries at the epicenter of the outbreak in Europe, have been loosening their lockdowns.But there have been concerns over whether this is the right decision at this point.We delve into the issue with Dr. Ben Cowling at the University of Hong Kong who is heading the Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics.We also have Dr. Stanley Perlman,... Professor at the University of Iowa, who has been studying coronaviruses like COVID-19 for the last 38 years.Dr. Cowling: Infections are still on the rise worldwide but many governments are itching to restart their economies. We've seen some European countries partially ease their lockdowns and social distancing. Do you think this is wise considering how Singapore saw an explosion of new cases and announced Wednesday it would extend its lockdown into June. Is it safe for any country right now to go back to business as usual?Dr. Perlman: The U.S. has introduced a three-phase plan to slowly restart its economy. Do you think this is a good idea?Also, Some countries like Sweden have claimed success in handling COVID-19 through herd immunity. How does that work and what do you think of that approach?Dr. Cowling: What is your view on herd immunity? Why are some countries implementing this method?Dr. Perlman: We keep hearing about re-infections. What complications and unknowns are we facing with COVID-19 at the moment?Dr. Perlman: Human vaccine trials have begun in the UK. Dr. Perlman what challenges do scientists face at this stage? And do you think it could be available by September as the UK government hopes?Dr. Perlman: It's a process that normally takes 18 months or so. Fast-tracking a vaccine is that safe?Dr. Cowling: The U.S. FDA and CDC have warned a second wave of infections in the winter could be even deadlier. South Korea has also warned there's a strong chance of a second wave in winter. Do you share this outlook and what can we do to prevent it?Dr. Perlman: Until a vaccine is developed and deemed safe, what's the most effective way to handle this pandemic?That's all the time we have today. Thank you Dr. Stanley Perlman and Dr. Ben Cowling from Iowa and Hong Kong.