Deputy Head of NCDC: we expect a second outbreak of the coronavirus starting at the end of fall

A second outbreak of the new coronavirus may start at the end of autumn and the virus will peak in winter, the Deputy Head of the National Disease Control Centre Paata Imnadze noted in an interview with the Georgian newspaper Kviris Palitra.

Imnadze said that lifting the restrictions amid COVID-19 may lead to an increased number of infected individuals.

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People think the coronavirus is over, but the virus has not gone anywhere, it is still with us and will remain with us at least a year. We expect a second strong coronavirus outbreak starting the end of autumn. We have to live with the virus. Social distancing, avoiding large gatherings, using face masks and following hygiene standards – this is the way of life with the new coronavirus. If we follow the rules, the virus will be less active in summer”, said Imnadze.

In an interview with the newspaper Kviris Palitra, Imnadze also mentioned that there is a shortage of the seasonal anti-flu vaccine on the world market and, allegedly, not everyone will have access to it.

Though, we will always have the vaccine for high-risk groups”, noted Imnadze.

As the summer season will gradually begin in the coastal regions of Georgia, Imnadze called on the public to maintain social distancing of at least two meters.