Greater access to COVID vaccines led to sharp decline in daily infections: Cabinet spox

CAIRO - 28 March 2022: The recent sharp decline in daily COVID-19 infections and fatalities in Egypt is attributed to greater access to COVID-19 vaccines, Cabinet Spokesman Nader Saad said.

Speaking to Al Hayah satellite TV channel on Sunday evening, Saad revealed that in light of these developments, the Cabinet's higher committee for managing the coronavirus crisis had decided to roll back some COVID-related restrictions during the holy fasting month of Ramadan, to start early April, such as allowing indoor wedding ceremonies as of April 1.

During its meeting earlier today, the committee also decided to remove a two-year ban on charity iftar (breakfast) tables during the holy month of Ramadan, the spokesman added.

However, these charity iftar banquets will require permission from relevant municipalities, if planned to be held outside of mosques or outdoors, Saad pointed out.

Moreover, event halls at mosques will also be reopened and afternoon religious classes resumed only at grand (congregation) mosques, while observing all precautionary measures, the spokesman noted.

He added that as of April 1, summer time working hours will apply to commercial stores; while working hours for restaurants will be extended till 2:00 CLT.