But that opendoor policy requires all inspection, quarantine and customs departments to be on the alert around the clock to comb through all arrivals — about 120,000 per day since March 11, among whom more than half are from the hard-hit countries and regions.
That more than 100 people have subsequently been confirmed infected with the virus having escaped detection on entering the country highlights the risks that loom at the gate.
That said, the 14-day compulsory quarantine for those from the worst-affected countries and regions is a necessary precaution.
