35% Increase in New Coronavirus Cases Over the Past Week, Says Pashinyan

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan chaired a meeting today where the coronavirus situation, preventive measures, and vaccination process in Armenia were discussed.

Pashinyan addressed the epidemiological situation in the Republic of Armenia, stating: "Dear colleagues, last week we recorded an approximately 35% increase in new cases of the novel coronavirus compared to the previous week, and it is evident that we have a trend of increase. Our goal now is to understand the current situation and exchange ideas regarding future actions. We will also discuss the dynamics of vaccinations and our next steps in this regard. First, we will hear from the Minister of Health, after which we will exchange thoughts on the issue."

Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan presented the coronavirus situation in Armenia as of August 16, 2021, reporting a total of 234,814 cases, with 2,704 individuals receiving treatment, 222,801 recovered, and 4,702 fatalities, with an additional 1,136 deaths from other causes. The minister noted that both globally and in our region, the epidemiological situation related to the coronavirus is quite tense, as reflected by the increase in cases and daily testing numbers. Currently, 10 medical organizations are operational, with 929 citizens hospitalized; 483 are in serious condition, and 100 are in critical condition.

Regarding the vaccination process, the minister reported a dynamic increase, with more than 220,000 vaccinations administered against Covid-19 as of today, approximately 100,000 of which occurred in the last month. The availability of vaccines is at a sufficient level, and a new batch is expected in the coming days. Avanesyan emphasized that vaccination against the coronavirus continues to be the most effective measure for preventing the spread of the infection, evidenced by the low hospitalization rates in countries with high vaccination levels, despite the global rise in cases. The minister indicated that corresponding changes are being implemented, and it is planned that from October 1 of this year, those engaging in economic activities will be required to ask their employees for vaccination certificates or negative PCR test results every 14 days.

Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister Araik Harutyunyan addressed the progress of vaccinations within the public administration system, noting that as of the end of July, that figure reached 53%. The process continues.

The meeting discussed measures related to the prevention of the spread of the coronavirus, strengthening control, promoting the vaccination process, and possible restrictions. The importance of extensive public awareness regarding both the tightening of controls and the effectiveness of vaccination was emphasized, which will help maintain the pandemic situation under control. Pashinyan noted that statistical analysis indicates a deterioration of the epidemiological situation concerning the coronavirus in Armenia, and it is necessary to tighten control over the adherence to anti-pandemic measures. Specifically, control over the wearing of masks in closed spaces must be strengthened, and relevant authorities should undertake active efforts. Nikol Pashinyan stated that maximum efforts must be made to keep the epidemiological situation manageable and to avoid the need for lockdowns, similar to what is currently happening in various countries.

As a result of the discussions, the head of government issued directives to those responsible.