The Algerian government has announced new measures to combat the spread of COVID-19, including revised curfew hours and a postponement of the university academic year. According to a statement released by the Prime Minister's office, the new measures aim to mitigate the impact of the pandemic. The decisions were made following consultations with the scientific committee monitoring the pandemic and health authorities. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who is also the Minister of Defense, had instructed the government to take necessary measures to curb the spread of the virus.
The government has adapted the partial home confinement hours for 29 wilayas, which will now be in effect from 8 PM to 5 AM. The list of wilayas under partial confinement has been expanded to include nine new areas with a surge in contamination cases. These new areas are Adrar, Guelma, Illizi, Tindouf, Tissemsilt, El Oued, Khenchela, Tipasa, and Ain Temouchent. The partial confinement measure has been reconducted for 20 wilayas, including Batna, Bejaïa, Biskra, and Algiers.
In addition to the confinement measures, the government has suspended public and private urban transportation services on weekends nationwide. The inter-wilaya transportation of people remains prohibited, and those who violate this measure will face regulatory sanctions. Furthermore, the government has closed markets selling used vehicles for a period of 15 days, starting from November 9. Markets and gatherings will be closely monitored to ensure compliance with preventive measures.
The government has also prohibited all types of gatherings, including family reunions, weddings, and circumcisions. These events have been shown to contribute to the spread of the virus, and authorities stress the importance of adhering to the measures in place. Inspectors from the education ministry will conduct regular, unannounced checks at schools to ensure that health protocols are being followed.
To enhance the response to the pandemic, the government has increased the availability of medical equipment, PCR tests, and antigen tests in hospitals. Additional hospital beds will be made available if needed. Efforts to improve working conditions and transportation for healthcare personnel will continue. The government has also intensified disinfection operations in public areas and strengthened inspections of businesses and public spaces.
The government has urged citizens to respect health protocols, including wearing masks, maintaining physical distancing, and practicing good hygiene. As the winter season approaches, awareness campaigns will be launched to educate citizens on the importance of adhering to these measures. Associations and neighborhood committees will be involved in these efforts to promote a culture of responsibility.
The new measures aim to curb the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate its impact on the population. The government has called for cooperation and vigilance from citizens to overcome this challenging situation. The restrictions will be in effect for a period of 15 days, and their implementation will be closely monitored by the authorities.
Key points
- Algeria's government has expanded partial home confinement to 29 wilayas and postponed the university academic year.
- The government has prohibited gatherings, including weddings and family reunions, to curb the spread of the virus.
- Authorities have increased the availability of medical equipment and hospital beds to enhance the response to the pandemic.
