Algeria Introduces New Measures to Combat Rising COVID-19 Cases

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune chaired a meeting in Algiers on Thursday to discuss the country's health situation amid a rise in COVID-19 cases. The meeting focused on measures to keep the situation under control. Tebboune was briefed by the walis of Algiers, Oran, Biskra, Sétif, and Ouargla on the current situation in their respective regions. The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister and ministers of Interior, Health, and Industry.

As part of the new measures, a special insurance scheme will be introduced for all medical personnel directly involved in the fight against the pandemic. This scheme will be funded by the state. Additionally, all public and private laboratories will be authorized to conduct COVID-19 screening tests. This move aims to reduce the pressure on the Pasteur Institute and its branches across the country. The new measures are designed to bolster the healthcare system's response to the pandemic.

The Algerian government has also introduced restrictions on movement in 29 provinces. For one week, starting from Friday, road circulation, including private vehicles, will be prohibited to and from these provinces. The affected provinces include Boumerdes, Souk Ahras, Tissemsilt, Djelfa, Mascara, Oum El Bouaghi, Batna, Bouira, Relizae, Biskra, Khenchela, M'sila, Chlef, Sidi Bel Abbes, Médéa, Blida, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Tipaza, Ouargla, Bechar, Alger, Constantine, Oran, Sétif, Annaba, Bejaia, Adrar, Laghouat, and El Oued.

In addition to restricting movement between provinces, the government has also banned public and private urban transportation during weekends in the 29 affected provinces. This measure will take effect from Friday. The restrictions aim to limit the spread of the virus and reduce the number of cases. The government is taking a proactive approach to managing the pandemic.

The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister, ministers of Interior, Health, and Industry, as well as the Commander of the National Gendarmerie and the Director-General of National Security. Members of the scientific committee responsible for monitoring the pandemic were also present. The committee's input will be crucial in shaping the government's response to the pandemic.

The new measures are part of the government's efforts to combat the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Algeria. The country has seen a significant increase in cases in recent weeks, prompting the government to take decisive action. The measures are designed to reduce the spread of the virus and alleviate pressure on the healthcare system.

The Algerian government remains committed to managing the pandemic and protecting its citizens. The new measures are a testament to the government's proactive approach to addressing the crisis. The public is expected to adhere to the new restrictions to help curb the spread of the virus.

Key points

• Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune introduces new measures to combat rising COVID-19 cases.
• A special insurance scheme will be introduced for medical personnel directly involved in the fight against the pandemic.
• Road circulation will be prohibited to and from 29 provinces for one week, starting from Friday.