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Extra precautions must be taken when going out: NEOC

National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has urged the public to take precautions when going out for essential purposes, as COVID-19 has been spreading among people staying indoors through others in the household who go out.

Speaking at a press conference, Dr. Sheena Moosa, who works with the Technical Advisory Group (TAG), said the number of COVID-19 cases is expected to increase significantly by May 31. She said the main priority during the period must be to control the outbreak as much as possible, and urged the public to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

Sharing the latest projections, the doctor said the outbreak is expected to hit its peak on May 31, when 1,600 people are expected to be newly infected. The doctor said although the figure represents a decrease from initial projections, it would still exceed the capacity of the healthcare system of the country. She said employees who work together in large groups are expected to be infected, while the number of cases identified from households would also increase.

Noting the projected peak coincides with the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays which usually brings a surge of shopping and gatherings, Dr. Sheena called on the public to practice physical distancing, avoid gatherings and observe personal hygiene at all times in order to stay safe from COVID-19.