Despite a number of government-mandated measures designed to protect the population and halt the spread of coronavirus, people have decided that they will congregate in groups anyway.
Exit was sent a number of photos this morning showing people sitting on cafe chairs outside a Conad in Tirana. With masks pulled down around their necks, they sat in groups chatting, playing on their phones and even having a drink. In one photo, as many as 21 people can be seen socialising at the cafe which is located out of the sight of the road.
An Exit journalist observed a number of people strolling around Blloku during the hours of the curfew, apparently oblivious to the risks and penalties.
The Albanian government has increased the preventative measures to contain the Coronavirus outbreak and has implemented a total ban on going out on the street except for between 6 am-10 am and 4 pm and 6 pm. The only people allowed out outside of these hours are those working for essential state departments, emergency services, and trade vehicles. The use of private cars is also banned.
Albania currently has 64 confirmed cases of the virus. The government announced yesterday that they would only be testing those in ‘at-risk’ groups and those who have come into direct contact with infected people. There is a global shortage of test kits meaning the number of cases could be way higher. While many young people with the disease are asymptomatic or only exhibit very mild symptoms, it can quickly kill the elderly or those with underlying medical conditions such as asthma, heart problems, or diabetes.
The country is not equipped to deal with a large-scale outbreak and there are only some 160 ventilators in the country. While the government has announced it will buy 50 more, this still does not come close to being able to help those that would need it, if the spread of the infection is not adequately contained.
People are asked to stay at home and limit going outside to just essential trips to the grocers or pharmacy. They have also been asked to respect a 2-metre distance between other people where possible, to wash hands regularly, cover faces when coughing or sneezing, and to wear gloves.
By limiting social interactions, the spread of the virus can be contained and the impact it has on society and the healthcare system can be lessened. The sooner the virus is contained, the sooner life can go back to normal.
Those making non-essential trips or excursions outside are kindly asked to stay at home.
Today, some 165 people were penalised 10,000 ALL by the police for breaking the rules. The police made a statement to the media reminding people of their duty to make a contribution towards stopping the spread of the virus.
Exit reached out to Conad for a comment on the situation at one of its stores today but is yet to receive a reply.
