The Algerian government has decided to reimpose restrictions to stop the spread of COVID 19 in the country after a spike in infections, the prime minister’s office announced on Sunday, reported Reuters.
Under the new restrictions, announced by the prime minister’s office, beaches, sport and cultural centres, leisure venues, gyms and used car markets will remain closed for 15 days. Businesses are required to close from 3pm, with cafes and restaurants limited to takeaway.
The government has announced a ban on large public gatherings, saying they help spread the virus. A curfew will also be imposed overnight across much of the country.
The government called on Algerians to fight what it called a “concerning phase” of the pandemic. The North African country had begun easing restrictions in June after a downward trend in the number of COVID 19 cases, paving the way for the reopening of most businesses. But the situation has worsened again in recent weeks forcing the Algerian government to reimpose restrictions.
Algeria has reported more than 68,000 infections and at least 2,150 deaths, according to the ministry of health.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, 75, was flown to a German hospital late last month after testing positive for COVID-19. He had quarantined himself on Oct. 24 after several senior officials in the president’s entourage had developed COVID-19 symptoms.
On Sunday, the presidency confirmed that Tebboune had finished treatment for the disease but would undergo follow-up checks.
“President Tebboune has completed the treatment protocol recommended by doctors,” the Algerian presidency said in a statement.
The statement, however, did not provide details about his condition or his location, or indicate when Tebboune might return to Algeria.
Tebboune was elected in December to replace longtime leader Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who was forced to step down out by pro-democracy protesters backed by the powerful army chief.
