Health minister warns of new virus variant as cases rise in Amman

AMMAN — A total of 40,000 people have so far received the COVID-19 vaccine, Health Minister Nathir Obeidat said on Sunday, noting that healthcare workers and the elderly constitute the majority of those who received the jab.

Speaking during a joint press briefing with Minister of State for Media Affairs Ali Al Ayed, the health minister said that a number of “uncomfortable” indicators were reported over the past two days, notably the share of tests returning a positive result, known as positive rate.

Highlighting the increase in the number of infections for the third day in a row, the minister noted that the COVID positive rate stands at 5.55 per cent.

The health minister added that the cases linked to the new variant of the virus have reached 350 in Amman, noting that the new variant is spreading in Amman, in particular.

The positive rate is rising in Amman said Obeidat, expressing discomfort over the capital city’s epidemiological situation, noting that the increase has coincided with the easing of restrictions and reopening of sectors.

Obeidat noted that the ease in restrictions, made several weeks ago, including reducing curfew hours, end of Friday lockdowns and reopening of a number of sectors, is under assessment. 

Highlighting poor adherence to preventive measures especially in restaurants and the recently reopened sectors, the minister warned of setbacks as the new variant is believed to be more contagious, calling on the public to abide by precautionary measures.

Vaccine producer Pfizer will resume supply to Jordan as of mid-February, while COVAX will provide Jordan with vaccine during the upcoming weeks, he added.

He pointed out that the government will reassess the local epidemiological situation next Thursday, to decide on the reopening of schools, scheduled for February 7.

Speaking also during the briefing, Ayed, who is also the government spokesperson, said that the continued reopening of sectors must be accompanied by a greater level of commitment to preventive measures and getting COVID-19 vaccination.

Noting that as of Monday, various sectors will reopen, Ayed said, adding that the government is going to strengthen safety oversight.

The government spokesperson also announced the issuance of Circular 21 for 2021 based on the provisions of Defence Order No. 19, which is related to the reopening of fitness centres, swimming pools and cultural centres, allowing them to operate within specified times.

Ayed said that the above mentioned establishments are allowed to open their doors after completing the required safety measures and signing a pledge.

Circular 21 comes as part of the implementation of the second phase of reopening sectors, he said.