The Malta Chamber of Scientists, in a statement on Tuesday is encouraging citizens to follow the guidelines and advice issued by health authorities and check updates daily.

It went on to say that it has been following the global and local developments of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Chamber explained that the main aim now is to decrease rapid infection through “social isolation to reduce the likelihood of large numbers of severe cases requiring hospitalisation, hence ensuring everyone receives adequate care.”

The Chamber expressed solidarity with, and thanked all biomedical scientists and pathologists who are conducting their duties in laboratories in Malta, all healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses and pharmacists who are on the frontline, as well as the Superintendence of Public Health, the Ministry for Health, and the management of our hospitals and health centres.

Research is vital to prepare for such pandemics, the Chamber said. “Advances and investment in research, science and technology have brought about the quality of life and health care that we presently enjoy.”

It added that researchers around the world collaborated to develop the tools that rapidly identify the virus and allow its detection in patients as well as help understand its spread.

The Chamber pointed out that investment in novel healthcare solutions and management has allowed some countries to mitigate several problems caused by Covid-19. Many of these countries suffered from the SARS-CoV outbreak in 2003, which has aided with their preparedness for the current pandemic.

“Crucial to this effort is research and development (R&D), which requires long-term planning and funding,” the Chamber said. “The Editor-in-Chief of Science magazine recently remarked that vaccines cannot be developed without appropriate funding, in response to Donald Trump’s request to speed up the development of a vaccine.”

“To ensure the continued prosperity of the Maltese population and economy,” the Chamber likewise reiterated the need for “continual and increased investment in science and R&D in Malta.”

The Chamber concluded by urging people to remain alert and check that any information they follow or share is scientifically grounded. It said that one good source is www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 “Scientists and medical and healthcare professionals are the primary source of sound advice on dealing and managing the current situation.”

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