In a commentary, SMU Associate Professor of Law Eugene Tan opined that unfortunately in an epidemic, fear spreads faster than the actual virus, and that the key is in whether a system can effectively maintain public confidence. Assoc Prof Tan explained that in lacking transparency, a government loses the confidence of the public, and this makes disease fighting efforts more complicated. He added that to maintain confidence, the government should make continuous assurance, and take a harsh stance against fake news.