Georgia reports 5 new cases of coronavirus, 9 recoveries

Five more individuals tested positive for coronavirus in Georgia increasing the total number of confirmed cases to 416, including five deaths. 

Meanwhile, nine infected individuals have recuperated from the virus bringing the total number of recoveries to 107.

• Georgian President: UN Sec-Gen praised Georgian efforts against COVID-19

Head of the National Centre for the Disease Control (NCDC) Amiran Gamkrelidze said that a total of 695 PCR tests have been carried out in five labs throughout the country over the last 24 hours.

He said, starting tomorrow five more labs will become available for testing: three in Tbilisi, one in Batumi and another in Kutaisi. 

The government says that lifting of certain restrictions, including the private vehicle traffic ban throughout the country, will start from April 27. Photo: Nino Alavidze/Agenda.ge

Deputy Head of the NCDC, Paata Imnadze stated earlier today that it will take about a year to return to the normal way of life after the restrictions amid the pandemic are lifted in the country.

State and health officials again call on citizens to stay home, avoid public gathering and maintain social distancing to minimise the further community transmission of COVID-19.

• Parliament approves extension of state of emergency in Georgia until May 22

With 97 votes in favour and ten against the Georgian parliament supported further extension of the state of emergency until May 22 to prevent the further spread of the coronavirus in Georgia.

Georgia has extended the suspension of flights through May 22, while  the restrictions on the use of private cars will be in force through April 26  as well.