During the special COVID-19 interview on June 4, 2020, Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair of the National Strategic Group on COVID-19 and Head of the Infectious Diseases Division at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) said that the infection rate is stabilizing in Qatar and there is no significant daily increase in cases. The weekly average has reached the stability stage as well, and the cases that require hospitalization have also reduced.

However, Qatar is also at the highest peak of the wave. In the next two weeks, the country will be able to confirm if this trend in decrease is continuing.

COVID-19 updates

Special COVID-19 interview #YourSafetyIsMySafet pic.twitter.com/pUBvhjUNUR

— وزارة الصحة العامة (@MOPHQatar) June 4, 2020

- It’s been three months since the COVID-19 outbreak in Qatar. Qatar has now succeeded in flattening the curve and reducing the impact of COVID-19 by 75%, thanks to the preventive and precautionary measures, and the awareness and corporation of the community.

- The latest data on the new cases and hospital admissions shows a leveling off and the coming week or two will confirm if this will continue to be the trend.

- Qatar is now witnessing more recoveries daily. This is due to the new protocol of discharging in 14 days because evidence shows that people with mild symptoms are not infectious after 10-14 days of infection. The majority of the infected are youth with immune strength, which helped speed recovery, except in some cases.

- There is an increase in the number of deaths, however, Qatar continuous to have one of the lowest COVID-19 deaths rated in the world. Thanks to these measures put in place: effective preventive measures to protect the elderly and those with chronic conditions, early detection, early administration of the treatment, excellent care, sufficient acute, and ICU beds, and redirecting resources.

- Ensuring people with COVID-19 are treated early is important to prevent their conditions worsening. To avoid that, it is important for people with COVID-19 to take the test earliest.

- As Qatar moves to the new normal where people will have to live with the virus, it is very important that everyone continues to follow the preventive measures.

- Resuming business and other activities should be done gradually, and in a prudent manner with strict observation of social distancing, wearing masks, and maintaining hand hygiene to avoid a resurgence of the virus.

- Following lifting the restrictions, it is important for people not to leave the house unless it is necessary, especially those who are 60 years old and above and those with chronic conditions.

- Ehteraz App will help with the gradual lifting of restrictions as it adds another layer of protection to the community. It is an excellent example of how technology is playing a vital role in curbing COVID-19 and facilitating return towards normality.

Here's everything you need to know about the virus, including ways to protect yourself.  To know more about testing for COVID-19, click here.

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Source: MOPH

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