Doctors warn renewed lockdown ‘will cause disproportionate damage’

The Israeli Association of Public Health Physicians says it opposes the reimposition of a nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19.

“A full lockdown is a move that will harm public health,” the union says in a statement. “A full lockdown will cause disproportionate health, economical and social damage and it’s a mistaken move at this time.”

It adds: “There’s no proof that a full lockdown is implementable in terms of public trust and there’s no proof it will reduce mortality over the long term.”

The union says the government should instead advance the proposals backed by Ronni Gamzu, the new coronavirus czar, who has expressed opposition to a renewed lockdown and other sweeping restrictions.

“It’s recommended to reduce activities in closed spaces and encourage activities in the open air. A differential policy is recommended by risk areas. We recommend working with the public to reduce unessential contact in closed spaces… while emphasizing the protection of at-risk populations, including in the community,” it says.

It also says the Education Ministry should ready for the new school year by encouraging distance learning and the holding of classes outdoors.

The statement comes as the Kan public broadcaster reports that Gamzu told ministers today there are currently no grounds for a lockdown.

“There’s no justification for a full lockdown — the hospitals aren’t in a situation of insufficiency and a lockdown will cause economic and social hardships,” he’s quoted as saying.

According to Channel 12 news, Prime Minister Netanyahu and his National Security Adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat are pushing hard for a general lockdown.