The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) reported on Tuesday 79 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 among community and 63 among travelers.

The MOPH recorded 149 recoveries from the virus during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases recovered in Qatar to 221,549.

The MOPH issued a statement on COVID-19 developments in Qatar, which said the following:

New Cases and Recoveries:

- 79 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 among community and 63 among travelers were announced on Tuesday.

- 149 people have recovered from the virus during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases recovered in Qatar to 221,549.

National COVID-19 Vaccination Program Data:

- 3428791 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered since the start of the program.

- 20368 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered in the past 24 hours.

- 78.1 percent of the eligible population has now received at least one dose of the vaccine.

- 98.6 percent of over 60s (the most vulnerable population group) have been vaccinated with at least one dose, while 93.5 percent have received both doses.

Current COVID-19 Status:

- In recent weeks the combined impact of COVID-19 restrictions and increasing vaccination rates, and the overwhelming support of the community, has resulted in a consistent reduction in the number of new daily infections in the country.

- However, it is still important to be cautious as the second wave is not yet over and there are still two highly contagious and highly virulent strains of the virus that are actively circulating in the community.

- The third phase of the gradual lifting of precautionary restrictions began on Friday, July 9, and is part of a four-stage plan to be implemented over the coming months.

- The date of implementation and the duration of each phase will depend on the pandemic indicators which depend to a great extent on the degree of compliance of the community members with the current measures, restrictions and guidance by the government.

- It is important during the current period that all members of society, including those who have received the vaccination, continue to wear masks as recommended and continue to adhere to social distancing.

What You Can Do:

- With COVID-19 still a threat to our health here in Qatar, it is important for everyone to play their role in controlling the virus by following precautionary measures:

- Adherence to physical distancing.

- Avoiding close contact with others, crowded places and confined closed spaces where other people congregate.

- Wearing a face mask.

- Washing hands regularly.

- People should take the COVID-19 vaccine at the earliest opportunity when their turn comes.

- Anyone suffering from COVID-19 symptoms should contact 16000 helpline immediately. This is important as the earlier the disease is detected the easier it will be to receive the right treatment and recover from it.

- Visit the MOPH website for regular updates and new information. (QNA)