MEXICO CITY — Compared to the United States, Mexico has far fewer cases of people with COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. And while many Mexicans are concerned with an eventual larger outbreak, the government has used a light hand in dealing with the pandemic.
The Mexican government says there are 53 cases of coronavirus detected and no deaths, so far. Some experts say Mexico should implement stricter measures to avoid an exponential outbreak.
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has been criticized for blaming his opponents for stoking fears, while hugging and kissing people at his rallies across Mexico.
But Hugo López-Gatell, Mexico’s undersecretary of public health, defended the president's public presence, saying he is not a source of infection but of moral strength.
The government just launched a campaign to promote, but not to impose, a so-called healthy distance among citizens.
Schools are extending their spring breaks, massive events are being canceled, and some companies are promoting working from home.
