Mexico’s federal government has invoked a national health emergency, mandating all “non-essential” businesses remain closed until April 30 – a measure designed to ensure the Covid-19 outbreak doesn’t get out of control.
All Mexicans and residents of Mexico – especially those over 60s and with conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart or lung disease – are urged to stay in their homes and avoid contact with others, although the government has stopped short of making this an obligatory measure. It has also banned gatherings of more than 50 people.
Sectors of the economy that will continue to operate include health and pharmaceutical, food services (supermarkets, grocery stores, markets and restaurants), financial (banks), agriculture, passenger and cargo transportation and media. The distribution of potable water and LP gas will continue, andgas stations, hardware stores, courier services and funeral homes will be open for business. Centers for child care, the elderly, refugees and victims of domestic violence will stay open. Law enforcement will be maintained at current levels. Although many government activities will be suspended, tax collection offices will stay open, as will all ports and airports.
“This is the last opportunity to reduce the contagion,” Deputy Health Minister Hugo Lopez-Gatell said.
During the one-month shutdown, employers will be obliged to pay the totality of their staff’s salaries. Companies that fail to comply could face economic sanctions.
Please login or subscribe to view the complete article.