Gov't Tightens Control over Compliance with Latest Public Restrictions

In parallel with the re-opening of the economy and against the background of increased epidemic risks, the Interagency Coordination Council led by Giorgi Gakharia, Prime Minister of Georgia, has tightened the management of the situation. A meeting held today in the format of a video conference, was focused on the review of the current epidemic situation in the country. Georgia has detected 9 new cases of COVID-19 infection in the past 24 hours, out of which one is not traceable to a source. Currently, the country has 5 cases of untraceable source in total, which significantly increases risks and a need for extra caution.

"It was once again stressed today that restrictions have been lifted and the economy resumed without any ground to ease the effort; on the contrary, to jointly synergize the respective institutions and citizens of the country. The Interagency Coordination Council of the Government of Georgia once again urges the population to be particularly cautious and firmly adhere to all the instructions that are necessary to protect their health and prevent a massive spread of COVID-19."

"Council Members reviewed the risk management mechanisms in the conditions of increased mobility and has thus ruled to tighten control over compliance with pre-defined rules and standards for places of public gathering, including restaurants, recreation areas and public transport," the Council announced. "If and when violations are identified, penalties promulgated in the law will be levied. On the background of the epidemic risks, greater importance is acquired by the timely detection of cases and treatment of patients. Hence, respective institutions are working on the extension of testing as instructed by the Prime Minister of Georgia. A Government Resolution will soon define a circle of people who will be required to pass the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on a periodic basis. Lab tests will be required for those calling 112 or their family doctor as soon as they get a fever, cough, difficulty breathing or other respiratory symptoms. At the same time, the recommendation remains valid for remote work of people who are employed in the civil service."

At present, a strict quarantine regime remains valid in two villages of Bolnisi Municipality – Mushevani and Getta, which are subject to additional resolution of the Inter-Agency Council of the Government of Georgia that will be issued on the grounds of the epidemic situation on the spot.

Based on the current data, Georgia has 843 confirmed cases of infection with COVID-19, out of which 697 have already recovered. Three people have been flown from overseas to Georgia for medical treatment. Lives of 13 people have been lost.