【明報專訊】VARIOUS government departments began to resume their services one after another yesterday (March 2). Some private companies as well as social welfare organisations have also followed the government's lead and gradually resumed office operations. As the global epidemic enters a new stage, the risk of a pandemic is growing with each passing day and a protracted battle against the epidemic seems inevitable. Hong Kong needs to try all efforts to prevent community outbreaks of the coronavirus and to guard against the introduction of the virus from countries and regions aside from the mainland. At the same time, society cannot stop functioning permanently. Over the past few weeks, the government has suspended many public services, causing much inconvenience to the public and affecting many. The resumption of these services is indeed necessary. The resumption of government services marks a new stage of the ''prolonged fight against the epidemic''. As the employees of public and private organisations return to offices, the risk of cross-infections will inevitably increase because of a larger flow of people and a higher chance of contact. Citizens must be vigilant and cautious, paying attention to social distancing and maintaining good personal hygiene. Public and private organisations should try their best to take care of the employees' needs and make appropriately flexible work arrangements.