DERIK, Syria – (North Press) – A number of Derik residents called on the responsible authorities in the health sector in northeastern Syria to take tougher preventative measures after recording the first case of coronavirus in Derik countryside.
Khalil Muhammad, from Derik countryside, told North Press residents do not adhere to the preventative measures, despite recording the first case of coronavirus.
Muhammad added health awareness is a duty to protect against the spread of the epidemic and the population are not aware the seriousness of the situation. "When I put on a mask I am being mocked, and this does not encourage taking the necessary measures."
Muhammad appealed to the health committees and the responsible authorities to make decisions to compel the population to adhere to the precautionary measures and spread awareness among them, and in case they do not comply, a total lockdown must be applied.
The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria announced on Sunday that the number of coronavirus cases increased to 8 in its areas after two new cases were recorded, one of which is in the city of Derik and the other in Hasakah.
Sherine Farho, from Derik, said all residents should be more careful about their health and the preventative measures, and she believes that customs and traditions prevent them from taking measures against coronavirus. "Despite recording two coronavirus cases in the region, the people are still crowding over the shops for buying Eid candies, which is one of the customs and traditions that they can abandon, and they will definitely make group visits during Eid al-Adha."
Farho agreed that it is difficult to close the shops, and the ideal solution in her opinion is the adherence of residents to the precautionary measures such as wearing masks and gloves while shopping, avoiding gatherings and staying at home except in cases of necessity.
Nazir Salah, the owner of an accessory shop in Derik market, said he fears the spread of the virus, especially since his shop is crowded by customers. "Tougher measures must be taken to limit the spread of the virus in the region."
The Autonomous Administration warned residents of the necessity of adhering to preventative measures and physical distancing in work places and public places, and it stressed that its specialized institutions at border crossings should take strict health measures on goods and people.
Reporting by Solnar Muhammad, editing by Lucas Chapman