Fourth phase of Covid restrictions commences in September if cases lessen

Dr. Yousef al-Maslamani

 

During an exclusive interview with Qatar TV on Monday, Hamad General Hospital’s Medical director Dr. Yousef al-Maslamani said that the phase 4 of Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted in the month of the September if the cases decline and situation improves by remaining under total control. 

Dr. Maslamani explained that "It was decided to delay the fourth phase and continue with the ongoing third phase during August due to the recent increase in the numbers of new cases of infection.”

He stated that "The number of Covid-19 cases in the community had remained low and stable until eight days after the Eid holidays but they started to climb soon with more than 100 infections per day.”

The decision to postpone lifting of phase 4 restrictions is due to the surging cases that were witnessed in the recent days and the number of individuals admitted in hospitals and intensive care unit (ICU) were also seen rising. 

He noted that "There is an improvement of the pandemic situation in the country but it is not recommended to open up more at this time.”

Commenting on the current situation in the region, he emphasised that all individuals must continue to adhere to the precautionary and preventive measures enforced in the country by the authorities. 

He mentioned that “It has been observed that as we further open up and ease the restrictions, many people start to take the precautionary measures lightly, and rarely abide by them, which contributes towards the further spread of the disease. In addition, many people are coming back to the country from abroad these days, giving more chances to spread the disease.”

Dr. Maslamani also said that, "It is natural that the delta variant could be found in Qatar as it has spread over 190 countries around the world but due to the various measures adopted its entry was delayed. The strict procedures and conditions for returning to Qatar are meant to protect the people and the country and these are updated regularly based on the information and data published by the other countries in this regard.”

The health official also highlighted the exceptional vaccination rate implemented in the region to curb the cases as nearly 85% of the eligible population aged above 12 have received at least one dose and a good number of the total population has received two doses in the country.

"However, herd immunity is not yet reached. So, until then people should continue to abide strictly by the preventive and precautionary measures and those who are designated to home quarantine to avoid receiving any visitors until they complete the period,” he added. 

The senior official lauded the country’s tremendous efforts and achievements in this matter, which has also won global acclaim in restricting the deadly disease and protecting the life and health of the inhabitants in Qatar.