Al-Watan, The Peninsula: Precautionary Measures a Gateway to Contain COVID-19 Pandemic

Doha, February 14 (QNA) - Qatari newspapers Al-Watan and The Peninsula confirmed in their Sunday editorials that precautionary measures are the gateway to contain the coronavirus (COVID-19) and that the increasing cases of infection are due to the inaction of a large proportion of community members in terms of wearing masks and not taking precautions in gatherings. Al-Watan pointed out that COVID-19 numbers globally have exceeded 108 million, with 2 million death, adding that the numbers are expected to increase on a daily basis, therefore, the newspaper stressed the need to continue precautionary measures until it is contained. Al-Watan pointed out that vaccinations opened gates of hope, and despite their necessity and importance, the best solution is still based on the necessity of distancing and sterilization, as well as avoiding crowded places, as this is the best treatment, and it is available to everyone, and it has also proven effective in reducing cases greatly. The newspaper explained that until a treatment is found for infection that works alongside vaccines, awareness and adherence to precautionary measures are all the safe gates to encircle this pandemic and limit its effects and repercussions. The newspaper indicated that the measures taken by the State of Qatar have succeeded in limiting the spread of the virus since its outbreak in July, but January witnessed a gradual and continuous increase in the number of new daily infections, which raised concern that this would be early indications of a possible second wave of the spread of the virus. Concluding, Al-Watan said that the opportunity still exists to reduce infections by returning to adhering to the procedures, a responsibility that must be taken up as soon as possible, in order to contain this pandemic in Qatar, which is very possible through the highest degree of caution. For its part, The Peninsula newspaper praised the efforts and strategic recommendations taken by the State of Qatar to prevent and limit the spread of Covid-19. The paper noted the country's use of technology to control the spread of the pandemic, pointing out that the State of Qatar is one of the first countries to introduce an electronic application to help contain the virus. People in Qatar have lot of awareness about the importance and benefits of the Ehteraz app which aims to protect and safeguard the health of everyone in the State of Qatar to support the national effort in preventing and reducing the spread of COVID-19, the Peninsula stressed. Ehteraz has proved its efficacy in tracing people who might have contracted the virus, the paper stressed. The government made app's activation is mandatory for everyone as its use by all the population is a great help in slowing the spread of the virus, it added. In conclusion, the newspaper called on all members of society to adhere more than ever to precautionary and preventive measures to prevent entering a second wave, before it gains momentum that brings us back to the restrictions that we have experienced. (QNA)