It may not yet be safe to reopen gyms and other fitness studios due to the risk of transmitting the new coronavirus disease, according to Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez.
Lopez said gyms, which are among the establishments temporarily shut down by the government, are considered “high-risk” places for the spread of the coronavirus based on the advice given by health experts. The coronavirus can still lurk on frequently-touched exercise equipment, he added.
“Under the GCQ (general community quarantine) po, we were advised na hindi muna (not yet to allow it) because of high risk. Kasi po as we reviewed the sectors to be opened, it is always finding that balance between iyong transmission rate, potential transmission rate and also the essential nature of the business,” Lopez said over government television last Saturday when asked if if gym will be allowed to operate during the quarantine period.
“It seems the virus can stay on many of the equipment. It’s so difficult to really check na frequently sanitized itong mga items na ito, talking of mga gym equipment in general. So marami silang hinahawakan diyan, metal pa, so hindi po advisable na mag-operate muna,” he added.
The government has placed Metro Manila and eight geographic areas under enhanced community quarantine until mid-May. (Genalyn Kabiling)