WHO Warns of COVID-19 Surge Risk During Ramadan in Middle East and North Africa

The Eastern Mediterranean region has recorded an increase in cases (22%) and deaths (17%) "last week compared to the previous week," reports AFP, relaying the words of Dr. Ahmed al-Mandhari, director of the WHO regional office, on Wednesday, April 14, 2021, during a virtual press conference in Cairo. "We are particularly concerned that the current situation could worsen during Ramadan if people do not follow" the measures, continues Dr. al-Mandhari, hammering that the measures, particularly distancing and wearing masks, must "be maintained to help contain the pandemic" during the fasting of the month of Ramadan.

Following him, Dr. Dalia Samhouri, head of emergency preparedness for the region, indicates that the WHO is urging countries to carry out a risk assessment with a view to preventing the spread of infection, recalling the measures the WHO recommends around mosques during the month of Ramadan: "physical distancing, ventilation, regular disinfection". "If I’m sick, I stay home," and "vulnerable people [...] those with chronic illnesses, must stay home," she added.

Providing an update on vaccine supply, Ahmed al-