Minister of Health Mam Bun Heng suggested banning people from gathering in crowds in provinces near Vietnam, and enforcing a mask-wearing policy while travelling. Hong Menea
Minister of Health Mam Bun Heng and Minister of Interior Sar Kheng have advised governors in provinces near Vietnam to strengthen monitoring at border checkpoints to prevent Covid-19 transmissions.
This advice came as the outbreak in Vietnam worsens with cases spreading from city to city. As of Sunday, Vietnam reported 620 cases of Covid-19 and five deaths.
In a letter released on Friday, Bun Heng said governors of Kampot, Takeo, Kandal, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, Tbong Khmum, Kratie, Mondulkiri and Ratanakkiri provinces have been warned, as they bordered Vietnam.
He suggested enhancing inspection of travellers, testing people suspected to have the virus and assigning forces to safeguard citizens.
Bun Heng also suggested banning people from gathering in crowds, and enforcing a mask-wearing policy while travelling.
Hotels and guesthouse owners were urged to continue practising preventive measures and educate citizens.
“The Ministry of Health advises people to suspend travelling to Vietnam, especially the regions that are being attacked by Covid-19,” said his letter.
Sar Kheng also released a letter advising provincial governors whose territory is close to Vietnam to increase vigilance.
He said they should strengthen the regulation of goods moving back and forth between borders, prevent illegal crossings and continue to educate people on prevention methods.
Vietnam reported Covid-19 community transmissions in Da Nang city on July 25. It spread to six other provinces, spanning from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Svay Rieng deputy governor Ros Pharith told The Post on Sunday that there are eight border checkpoints in his province which the government allows citizens from the two countries to cross.
“There are no normal people crossing borders. There are only people who cross the border for diplomatic purposes and those who study in Vietnam. Almost no tourists or citizens have crossed the border since its closure on March 20. We now only exchange goods,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cambodia recorded a new Covid-19 case on Sunday, bringing the total to 240. It also reported 32 recoveries bringing their total numbers to 196.
In other Covid-related news, the Ministry of Health announced on Sunday that citizens holding a foreign passport with a K visa will not have to pay $3,000 when they enter Cambodia.
However, they must have a letter proving they tested negative for Covid-19 within 72 hours of travelling.
Also, diplomats and international organisation representatives must prove they are not infected with Covid-19. They must quarantine, but the quarantine process needs to be administered by their employers.
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