Observing a face mask rule could avoid a third wave of coronavirus, Georgian National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) Chair, Amiran Gamkrelidze, said on Thursday. 

NCDC Head noted that the Covid-19 positivity rate is five times less than it was in November-December, and citizens should maintain this progress. 

Gamkrelidze stressed people should not be under the illusion that coronavirus is over, but be careful and follow the recommended rules.

“People are angry, but I urge you, we will have to wear facemasks for another year or a bit longer. Personal care, handwashing, social distance, and so on will stay in effect until 70 percent of the population gets the vaccine or very effective medicine is approved. People should adapt to this. I have to tell the truth,” Gamkrelidze stressed. 

Since daily infections significantly dwindled, the Georgian government announced to lift several coronavirus-related restrictions.

All public transport throughout the country will resume operations from February 8. Starting February 15, all catering facilities, including restaurants, will be allowed to provide their outdoor service. On top of that, in-class studies will resume in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Rustavi.