The MOH spokesman, Dr. Muhammed Al-Abdulaali, said that the world is still addressing the spread of COVID-19. However, the way countries are handling this phase, as well as any Omicron developments, varies from one country to another. Some countries have taken steps that have proven to be fruitful for overcoming this difficult phase, relying heavily on vaccines and preventive measures. On the other hand, many other countries still have low immunity levels and are still highly cautious.
“The Kingdom has successfully overcome this phase, and many other difficult phases before it. We were able to avoid several waves of the virus throughout the past few months, thanks to many measures taken and decisions made accordingly. Members of the society were also extremely cooperative and aware. Not to mention, we have seen high demand on the COVID-19 vaccines,” he added.
All evaluations conducted by the official platforms of organizations, authorities, and specialized agencies still put Saudi Arabia in an advanced rank, whether in the G20 or on a global level. Al-Abdulaali added that COVID-19 infection rate in the Kingdom, as well as critical cases, have significantly plummeted, following the last surge, by about 90%. This was accompanied by a decrease in critical cases to 45% of the numbers recorded in the past few weeks. These figures are deemed promising.
Noteworthy, more than 60 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been received across the Kingdom, and over 24 million people have received two doses. The number of people who have received a booster shot is estimated at 11 million. The positive effect of the vaccines can be easily observed, as they have significantly reduced the number of critical cases in KSA.
He said that the Kingdom has great confidence in the committees, experts and authorities that conduct continuous evaluation and monitoring of the curves and indicators of COVID-19 cases, whether at the global, regional or local level, inside or outside the Kingdom. This evaluation is ongoing, and the measures are taken carefully and wisely, in line with each stage. Face masks, like other precautionary measures, are subject to evaluation. Any changes made to the use of face masks take into account the requirements of each phase.
However, individuals are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of face masks. Wearing them has have become a healthy habit that contributed to decreasing the spread of influenza as well as COVID-19. Everyone is urged to wear face masks whenever necessary, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, or when any respiratory health problems are observed,” he added.