It was also due to the proximity of the Christmas holidays that, as usual, involve social and family gatherings.

Authorities also urged to observe the recommended guidelines on hand washing, hygiene, social distancing, and completing vaccination schemes.

According to Eladio Pérez, Deputy Minister of Collective Health, and Director of Epidemiology, Dr. Ronald Skewes, the recommendation to wear facemasks was removed in the country, but not compulsorily. It remained a voluntary and personal decision on self-care.

Perez pointed out that face masks and vaccination are the most effective measures to fight Covid-19. The virus’ behavior indicates that it will long remain among the population, with peaks of the disease in susceptible people, as occurs with influenza.

jrr/iff/mem/ema