The ministry of health has said the plunging of coronavirus cases in the country does not mean the disease has disappeared calling on citizens to wear face masks amid the Koriteh festival.
Muslims in The Gambia are preparing to mark the end of Ramadan and they spend the period worshipping Allah and visiting family and friends.
The health ministry in a statement said: “As Muslims in The Gambia and in many other countries celebrate or observe the Eid Fitr commonly known as Koriteh on or around Wednesday the 12st day of May 2021, the Ministry of Health hereby informs all intending travellers and volunteers who want to be tested for COVID-19 continue to report at the sample collection site at the Independence Station in Bakau.
“The COVID-19 sample collection site around the Ministry of Petroleum in Brusubi will be closed on the Koriteh day and a day after. The closure of the Brusubi site for two days is due to limited number of health workers on duties for sample collection as a good number of the worker will be celebrating the feast and enjoying the presumed public holiday.
“Citizens and others residing in The Gambia are further urged to follow all the precautionary measures recommended for the prevention and control of COVID-19, especially: wearing face mask preferably made of fabric; [and] hand washing with soap and running water or use hand sanitizer
“The Ministry wishes to clarify that, the reduction of reported cases in the past seven days does not suggest that, the coronavirus has disappeared in this country, thus it is vital that we continue to remain committed and maintain the efforts.
“Meanwhile, the Ministry further appeals to the general public to visit health facilities to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Those that have their first dose of vaccine and are due for the second are particularly encouraged to get the second jab. The public is also encouraged to call the Ministry of Health Toll-Free Number 1025 for information regarding COVID-19. The Ministry of Health wishes all a successful and safe Eid celebration.”
