The epidemiological situation, under control
Romania has entered into a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic and the number of infections is growing. Authorities say things are under control but urge people to act in a responsible manner.
Corina Cristea, 18.03.2021, 14:00
With around 880 thousand Covid infections and almost 22 thousand deaths recorded more than a year after the first case of Covid-19 was confirmed on its territory, Romania has now entered the third wave of the pandemic. Figures announced by the Group for Strategic Communication in Bucharest show a surge in the number of daily infections, which has exceeded 6 thousand in 24 hours for the first time this year. The number of patients in intensive care has also increased, putting a lot of pressure on hospitals, which, if the situation worsens, could be unable to take in more patients. The number of counties entering the red scenario due to high infection rates is growing, with more restrictive measures being put in place. Bucharest authorities have nevertheless given assurances that the epidemiological situation is under control. But the situation may worsen at an moment.
Romania is again facing a bigger number of daily infections and increased pressure on ICUs, President Klaus Iohannis said on Wednesday, calling on people to act responsibly. Talking about vaccination, Iohannis said people should base their decisions on expert recommendations and voiced hope this third wave could also be the last one, given that the immunization campaign is under way.
Klaus Iohannis: “The chance to put an end to the pandemic is bigger every day and we must continue to be prudent. The only scientific methods proven effective in this respect are the restrictive measures and the immunization of a big part of the population. We must take informed decisions, based on the recommendations of experts. ”
Until heard immunity is reached, clear measures must be taken to ease the pressure on hospitals, the President also said. Around 50 thousand people are immunized every day in Romania, according to data supplied by the National Committee for Vaccination. Since the start of vaccination in the country, on December 27, 2020, around 2.4 million doses have been used to immunize some 1.6 million people. (EE)