Number of new Covid-19 infections might reach 3,000 a day in early January - Pavluts

RIGA - Considering the expected outbreak of the new Covid-19 omicron variant, in early January up to 3,000 new infections a day might be registered, said Health Minister Daniels Pavluts (For Development/For) on social networks.

So far 32 omicron cases have been reported in Latvia, including five cases when transmission took place locally, which means that the actual number of omicron cases must be higher.

"The omicron is spreading fast, it doubles the number of infections in two to three days instead of weeks. Western countries are being closed down one after another," said Pavluts, adding that it is clear that this wave will soon reach Latvia.

"Many people are expecting easing of restrictions after January 11 that  we promised in November. I don't know whether we will be able to do that," said Pavluts, calling on his colleagues at the government and coalition to "switch thinking" to the omicron scenario, which means that additional restrictions cannot be excluded.

"I call on everyone to spend the Christmas time among the closest relatives. Please be especially cautious if you plan to visit relatives from high risk countries," Pavluts said, also calling on everyone to get vaccinated.

It was planned that after the state of emergency in Latvia ends on January 11, Latvia would be able to return to similar regulations as there were in the summer of 2021. The current restrictions would remain in force for unvaccinated people.