UK coronavirus variant cases spikes in Qatar

The new variant of coronavirus, B 117 (UK variant), is increasing in Qatar, raising concerns. During a press conference held on Wednesday, the Chair of the National Health Strategic Group on Covid19 and Head of Infectious Diseases at Hamad Medical Corporation, Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, stated the country has recorded a tremendous increase in the number of coronavirus patients each day.

Though strict quarantine regulations were in place, the country is witnessing the fast-spreading strain, with many affected hospitalized for observation.

"We continue to see a significant number of new cases each day, and every day, people are becoming sick due to the Covid19, with many requiring admissions to the hospital to manage their symptoms and even admission into ICU for life-saving treatment," said Al Khal.

The coronavirus preventive measures launched in early February in collaboration with various government departments have succeeded in limiting the spread of the disease to an extent.

During the conference, Al Khal stated that the Pizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are effective in the fight against new variants giving new hope as these vaccines are part of the inoculation program. At present, a total of 380,000 Covid19 vaccine doses have been administered, with more than 15,000 immunized daily.

The ministry is closely monitoring the situation in schools. It is observed that all schools comply with preventive measures, and the vaccine has been administered to 45 per cent of school teachers and faculty members.

It is expected that a lion-share of 2021 will be under the shadow of the covid crisis. The ministry urged all citizens and residents to follow the preventive measures strictly.