The city of Bejaia in northern Algeria has taken steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Public spaces, cafes, restaurants, and parks have seen a significant decline in attendance. The city's hospital, Khellil Amrane, and other public health facilities have also reported a decrease in visitors. These measures come as the government ramps up efforts to combat the pandemic.

The Bejaia hospital has implemented new rules to protect patients, healthcare workers, and visitors. The hospital advises against visits from people showing symptoms of illness, such as fever, cough, or runny nose. Children under 16 are banned from visiting, and only one person per day can visit a patient, accompanied by only one other person. Visits outside regular hours are strictly prohibited.

Local businesses and workplaces are also taking precautions. In one insurance agency in the city center, employees have been advised to greet each other without shaking hands or hugging. The agency's director said he had instructed staff to take these precautions to minimize the risk of transmission.

The city's restaurants and cafes have reported a significant decline in business. A restaurant manager said that on a typical day, the restaurant would be full at lunchtime, but on this day, attendance had dropped by more than half. The manager attributed the decline to concerns about COVID-19.

The Bejaia authorities have set up a commission to coordinate efforts to combat the pandemic. The commission, led by the Wali of Bejaia, brings together representatives from various sectors, including security services, healthcare, education, and transportation. The commission aims to work together to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the region.

As of the previous day, no cases of COVID-19 had been reported in Bejaia. The city's authorities are taking a proactive approach to prevent the spread of the virus. The measures in place include limiting public gatherings, tightening hospital visitation rules, and promoting social distancing in public places.

The situation in Bejaia reflects the growing concerns about COVID-19 in Algeria. The government has been working to contain the spread of the virus, and the city's authorities are taking steps to protect the local population. The measures in place will be reviewed and adjusted as necessary to ensure the city's residents remain safe.

Key points

  • The city of Bejaia has taken precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including limiting public gatherings and tightening hospital visitation rules.
  • Local businesses and workplaces are taking steps to minimize the risk of transmission, such as promoting social distancing and banning handshakes.
  • As of the previous day, no cases of COVID-19 had been reported in Bejaia.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.