The government declares lockdown in Svaneti Region
By Khatia Bzhalava
Tuesday, August 11
Due to the worsening of the epidemiological situation in Mestia, Ushguli, and Lendjeri ( Svaneti Region), the government of Georgia has decided to impose restrictions to avoid further spread of the infection. Preventive measures include restrictions on movement within the Mestia Municipality and in the direction of the Municipality as well. Only pharmacies, banking facilities, grocery stores, and open-space restaurants will be permitted to operate In the settlement of Mestia, Ushguli, and Lendjeri.
Out of 37 biological samples taken in the Municipality of Mestia, COVID-19 was confirmed in 17 cases, 7 of which are local individuals and 10 people are the visitors of the site. A man from Tbilisi who was visiting the Municipality is considered to be the source of the confirmed cases. Currently, 5 epidemiological groups are operating on the location and carry out active testing and thorough epidemiological studies.
On August 10th, the members of the Coordination Council gathered to declare locking down of the Municipality. According to the Ministry of Healthcare, Ekaterine Tikaradze, a significant increase in the number of the COVID cases in Mestia is not predicted, “since, proper measures have been implemented on time.” Tikaradze stated that the probable term of lockdown will be 28 days, however, the term might be revised according to the decision of epidemiologists.
On the briefing at the government’s administration, PMs stated that to avoid further spread of the infection, the relevant authorities will ensure the placing of the tourists from every settlement to the quarantine zones. It was also mentioned that every citizen that leaves the municipality will also have to undergo mandatory quarantine procedures.
As of August 10th, 25 new coronavirus cases have been confirmed and 10 infected patients have recovered. In total, there are 1250 confirmed cases in Georgia, with 1010 recoveries and 17 deaths. 41 infected Georgian citizens have been transported to Georgia to be treated for Covid-19.
