The daily Covid-19 figures remain high, and it does not look like they will be decreasing any time soon. While it might be a bit too early to say whether the recently introduced measures are working, it is probably safe to say that the spread of the UK variant will ensure that the infection rate remains high for the coming weeks.

We do not wish to sound negative but, realistically speaking, it is probable that the measures that are currently in place will be extended beyond 12 April. It is unlikely, and unwise, to open schools again so soon, or to increase the permitted size of public gatherings.

Bars, which have been closed down since October, will likely remain shut for a while longer.

In view of this, the statements made by government with regard to the extension of the Covid-19 wage supplement scheme and talk of other upcoming measures are most welcome.

While many businesses have managed to adapt to the realities of the pandemic and have shifted to teleworking and to online services, not everyone has the same luxury. The tourism industry and related businesses, in particular, have had it bad and will remain in a precarious situation for many months to come. It is vital that the government continues to support these businesses and help them survive.

When the times comes for Malta to open its borders fully again, without restrictions, we must hit the ground running, especially when it comes to traditional markets like the UK Italy. Other countries that are doing better than us in terms of infection numbers are also preparing themselves for the eventual return of tourism, and we cannot lag behind.

The second round of vouchers will also help boost spending when the time comes. Obviously, now is not the time to issue the vouchers, with restaurants, bars and other outlets closed, but the situation will not last forever and, when things improve, this initiative should once again prove crucial to boost consumption.

Meanwhile, the topmost priority remains public health, particularly, the situation at the hospitals. Testing and inoculation are moving at a rapid pace, but the fact remains that the hospitals are struggling to cope with the unprecedented influx of patients. To make matters worse, the disaster currently being experienced at the contact tracing centre is leading to confusion and a possible increase in transmission, since people who test positive or who have been in contact with infected people are not finding anyone to give them direction.

More resources have to be allocated to this service. If need be, the government should issue a call for volunteers. This is probably the way forward, since the health sector is strained enough as things stand and plucking more people from its ranks is just not doable.

The same goes for the 145 helpline, which was set up to answer queries related to the vaccine. Those queries have not decreased – in fact they probably increased as a result of the issue related to the Astra Zeneca vaccine.

It is already bad enough that Charmaine Gauci only holds briefings once a week, despite the ongoing spike in cases, but at least the public should have other functioning channels of communication with the health authorities.

Ignorance and a lack of guidance in such a situation can be as dangerous as the virus itself.