Coronavirus could subside in June if Egyptians adhere to precautionary measures

The coronavirus pandemic in Egypt could subside in June if Egyptians comply with precautionary measures, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, said Egypt’s Minister of State for Information Osama Heikal.

Ramadan, which is often marked by family gatherings, is expected to start around 23 April, Ahram Online reported on Monday.

The unfolding of the crisis during Ramadan is “worrying”, but “if citizens showed commitment, the epidemic situation of the coronavirus in Egypt will subside in June,” the minister said in TV comments late on Sunday.

The matter is contingent on people’s awareness, he added, urging Egyptians to avoid large gatherings and strictly follow personal hygiene practices.

Heikal said the country’s healthcare system is capable of tackling a “gradual” rise in cases, stressing that the problem lies in a sudden increase in infections.

A high government emergency committee is closely monitoring the situation and citizens’ behaviors during the crisis, he said.

Egypt has so far reported 2,190 confirmed cases of the coronavirus, with 163 deaths.