The current Omicron strain of Covid-19 is causing relatively mild symptoms, but the situation in Georgia remains challenging with a high death toll. According to Amiran Gamkrelidze, Head of the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC), the country is at the peak of the virus spread. However, he believes that by following regulations, avoiding public places, and getting booster shots, the country can overcome the sixth wave with fewer human losses.
At a recent meeting of the Interagency Coordination Council, Deputy Health Minister Tamar Gabunia announced that the isolation period for essential workers with no symptoms will be reduced from eight to six days. Health officials and authorities have stated that no further restrictions are expected in Georgia, and schools and kindergartens will continue to operate in classrooms. However, they urge citizens to remain vigilant as the Omicron variant, while less severe, is still a threat.
Currently, there are 3000 hospital beds available in the country, and the number of critical patients has not increased. However, labs, outpatient facilities, and online clinics are facing pressure due to the rising number of cases. On Tuesday, Georgia reported 24,16 new cases, 18,221 recoveries, and 54 deaths. The capital city of Tbilisi recorded the highest number of cases, followed by the Imereti and Adjara regions.
On Wednesday, the country reported 25,161 new cases, 16,789 recoveries, and 51 deaths. Tbilisi again had the highest number of cases, followed by Imereti and Adjara. On Thursday, Georgia reported 22,444 new cases, 13,245 recoveries, and 53 deaths. Tbilisi remained the region with the most cases, followed by Imereti and Adjara.
The daily test-positivity rate in Georgia is currently 32.82%, and the total case tally has reached 1,398,059. Of those, 1,154,476 people have recovered, and 15,404 have died. As of February 10, 2,764,352 people in Georgia have received a Covid-19 vaccine.
Many countries, including Georgia, are starting to ease Covid restrictions ahead of the upcoming tourist season. In the UK, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that all remaining restrictions in England, including the legal rule to self-isolate, could end later this month. However, the Scottish government’s restrictions will remain in place until at least March 24.
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