You're reading: Armenia discussing possible imposition of curfew due to worsening COVID-19 situation

YEREVAN – Armenian authorities are discussing the possible imposition of tight restrictions and a curfew due to a deteriorating situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who was also confirmed to be infected with COVID-19, said.

“Yes, we are discussing such possibility [the imposition of a tough quarantine and a curfew]. We are also discussing economic aftereffects and burden. We are now discussing several scenarios and will make a decision,” Pashinyan said at a press briefing in the courtyard of the government compound on June 4 in response to online questions from journalists.

The government press service is livestreaming a press briefing involving Health Minister Arsen Torosyan and Director of the Artashat medical center Lilit Museyan.

The situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic in Armenia is worsening, Pashinyan added.

“The situation is getting worse due to mass violations of anti-epidemiological requirements. I am again calling on everybody to comply with all the requirements, in particular, wear facemasks and keep a social distance,” Pashinyan said.

He also said that he is well, as his coronavirus infection is proceeding without any symptoms.

“All members of my family again underwent a complete medical examination, there are no symptoms, the virus is manifesting no symptoms, there is neither a pneumonia, nor a fever,” the Armenian prime minister said.

Medics in Armenia identified coronavirus in 697 people in the past 24 hours; doctors are unable to timely hospitalize all people who need the intensive therapy, Pashinyan said earlier on June 4.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 infections reached 11,221 throughout the country, the country’s unified information center reported on June 4.

Fifteen COVID-19 patients have died over the past 24 hours, bringing the total of coronavirus deaths in Armenia to 244, the information center said.

As many as 3,468 people (+14 in the past 24 hours) recovered from coronavirus in Armenia.

The coronavirus emergency situation is in effect in Armenia until June 13. However, all restrictions on economic activity have been lifted, all enterprises have resumed operations, and public transportation services are available. Restrictions remain only for educational establishments.

Patients diagnosed with asymptomatic coronavirus have been isolated at home instead of hospitals since May 22.