Health Ministry director general Nachman Ash says despite the new restrictions approved by the cabinet last night, he is concerned about the current spike in COVID cases.
“The number of cases is hitting new heights, as is the number of serious cases,” Ash says in a press conference for reporters. “The situation is concerning — we cannot remain apathetic.”
Ash calls on the one million unvaccinated Israelis to get the shot as soon as possible, as well as for those over 60 to receive a third booster dose. He noted that ministry officials will be meeting tonight to decide whether to expand the booster dose campaign to those under age 60.
He reassures Israelis that there is a considerable stockpile of Pfizer vaccines in Israel as well as additional shipments on the way. Ash says the ministry will look into a new study showing that the Moderna vaccine — which Israel has a small stockpile of — is more effective than the Pfizer shot against the Delta variant.
Ash reiterates that getting vaccinated and observing the restrictions of masks, social distancing and limitations on gatherings are the only things that can prevent “drastic” measures being taken in the future.
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From the Liveblog of
Thursday, August 12, 2021
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