Health Ministry chief: Rise in serious cases is ‘very troubling’

Health Ministry Director-General Nachman Ash speaks during a press briefing on July 25, 2021. (Screen capture: Facebook)
Health Ministry Director-General Nachman Ash speaks during a press briefing on July 25, 2021. (Screen capture: Facebook)

Health Ministry Director-General Nachman Ash says he’s troubled by the rise in serious COVID cases, which surpassed 100 on Sunday for the first time in months.

In a briefing with reporters, Ash says he hopes the reimposed “Green Pass” system, which goes into effect later this week, will help stem the outbreak.

The renewed restrictions will apply to both indoor and outdoor events with over 100 participants, starting on July 29. The requirement to present proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test from the past 72 hours will only apply to people older than 12. Under that age, there will be no restrictions.

“We hope the Green Pass will help reduce morbidity, but the number of serious cases is very troubling,” says Ash.

The Health Ministry chief also opposes a plan that would see children in schools be required to self-isolate for just 48 hours upon exposure to COVID and present a negative test before they return to class.

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