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COVID-19 in Georgia Live Blog – September 2020 / Archived

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Wednesday, September 30

19:00 GMT+4 – 71 New Cases, 32 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 71 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1458. In the meantime, 32 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 530. With 11 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 917. 

13:30 GMT+4 – 3rd Recorded Death in a Day

Georgian authorities have reported 3rd COVID-19-related fatality in one day, with the total number of deaths since the outbreak of the pandemic reaching 39.

12:30 GMT+4 – 38th Fatality Reported, 2nd in One Day, Had Underlying Conditions

The government-run website Stopcov.ge reports 2nd COVID-19-related fatality for September 30, bringing the overall death toll in Georgia to 38.

According to the Adjara Health Ministry, the 61-year old woman was admitted to the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital last night in critical condition as she was suffering from pneumonia and heart failure.

11:20 GMT+4 – 37th Deceased Had Underlying Conditions

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, the 37th COVID-related death was a 69-year-old man receiving care at the Bomondi Clinic in Kutaisi. Endeladze claims the patient had bilateral pneumonia, chronic lung disease, respiratory diseases, and atrial fibrillation.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 326 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 235 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 30 cases were confirmed in the capital of Tbilisi; 38 in Imereti; 14 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 6 in Guria; 1 in Kakheti; 1 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 1 in Samtskhe-Javakheti.

11:00 – Five More Cases in Tskhinvali, Total Hits 100

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported five new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of the region’s total confirmed cases to 100. With a total of 90 recoveries, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 10. 

10:30 GMT+4 – Record 326 Daily New Cases, 37th Fatality Reported

Georgia has reported a record 326 new cases, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the country (excluding occupied territories) to 6,192. According to latest data from NCDC Georgia,  the number of recoveries has reached 3,120. NCDC Georgia also reported another – 37th – COVID-related fatality. The number of active cases to date stands at 3,009.

Tuesday, September 29

19:00 GMT+4 – 35 New Cases, 59 More Recoveries, 11th Fatality Reported in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 35 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1387. In the meantime, 59 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 494, and another COVID-19-infected patient died – the 11th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 884. 

18:30 GMT+4 – Death Toll Reaches 36 as 2 More Fatalities Are Reported

The government-run website stopcov.ge reports two new COVID-19-related fatalities – bringing the number of daily deaths to 4 as the overall death toll in Georgia reaches 36.

14:50 GMT+4 – Tskhinvali Region to Prepare up to 100 Inpatient Beds

According to Alla Chochieva, deputy minister of health in the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, Moscow-backed authorities in the region will deploy up to 100 inpatient beds with ventilators for COVID-19 patients. The announcement follows a reported visit to the region by health experts from the Russian Federation.

According to Chochieva, patients with mild symptoms will be able to be treated on an outpatient basis at home.

14:00 GMT+4 – New Case Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported one new case of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 95. With a total of 90 recoveries, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 5. 

13:00 GMT+4 – 34th Fatality Reported, 2nd Today, Had Underlying Chronic Diseases

A 34th COVID-19-related death was reported in Georgia, the second today, according to recently released data on Stopcov.ge.

Based on information provided by Sachkhere Medical Center Director Mikheil Kamushadze, the patient was a man from Kutaisi under the age of 70, who was receiving care in Sachkhere after testing positive for the virus. Other than developing pneumonia, the deceased was already suffering from tuberculosis.

11:30 GMT+4 – 7 Patients on Assisted Ventilation from Abkhazia

According to Marina Endeladze from Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 23 critical COVID-19-infected patients currently on assisted ventilation in Georgia, 7 have been transferred from occupied Abkhazia for medical treatment.

11:20 GMT+4 – 33rd Deceased, 55, Had Multiple Underlying Diseases

The 33rd deceased COVID-19-infected patient was a 55-year-old woman from the Adjara region with multiple chronic underlying illnesses, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and myocardial infarction, Marina Endeladze from Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases confirmed today.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 314 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 225 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 35 cases were confirmed in the capital of Tbilisi; 38 in Imereti; 18 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 9 in Shida Kartli; 3 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; and 1 in Kvemo Kartli and Guria each.

11:00 GMT+4 – Record 314 Daily New Cases and 270 New Recoveries, 33rd Fatality Reported

Georgia has reported record 314 new cases, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the country (excluding occupied territories) to 5,866. In the meantime, 270 more patients have recovered (daily record), taking the number of recoveries to 2,324. NCDC Georgia also reported another – 33rd – COVID-related fatality. The number of active cases to date stands at 3,483.

Monday, September 28

19:00 GMT+4 – 20 New Cases, 34 More Recoveries, 10th Fatality Reported in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 20 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1352. In the meantime, 34 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 434, and another COVID-19-infected patient died – the 10th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 908. 

17:30 GMT+4 – 735 Inpatient Beds Still Available

According to the Georgian Ministry of Health, as of now, there are 735 inpatient beds available for COVID-19 patients nationwide.

17:05 GMT+4 – 32nd Fatality Reported, 4th Today

A 32nd COVID-19-related death was reported in Georgia, the fourth today, according to recently released data on Stopcov.ge.

According to Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze, the deceased was a 57-year-old man with underlying conditions who was receiving treatment at the Tbilisi Republican Hospital.

13:00 GMT+4 – Schools in Ozurgeti Switch to Distance Learning

According to Head of the Ozurgeti Educational Resource Center Lela Imedashvili, schools in Ozurgeti, city in the western Guria region, will switch to distance learning due to a spike in COVID-19 cases. Classroom attendance will continue in Chokhatauri and Lanchkhuti.

12:00 GMT+4 – Changes in Assessing the Recovery Status of Asymptomatic Individuals

According to Deputy Health Minister Tamar Gabunia, individuals who display no symptoms on the 12th day after a positive test result will be considered healthy and will be able to return to normal social life without repeated testing. This scheme for granting recovery status to asymptomatic persons will be reflected in the guidelines of the Ministry of Health.

“According to public health experts, the recommendations in this regard have been changed around the world. In particular, based on the announcements made by the US Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, eight days after the onset of symptoms, the person is practically no longer contagious, the test may be positive, although the ability of the virus to infect another person is minimal or virtually non-existent,” the Deputy Health Minister explained.

As for symptomatic patients, the minimum length of hospital stay for patients in a clinic is 13 days before recovery, which include ten days of symptoms and a 3-day asymptomatic period.

11:30 GMT+4 – Preschool and Higher Education Reopening Dates Announced

Georgian Education Minister Mikheil Chkhenkeli announced that preschools will reopen nationwide starting from October 12, except for in Adjara. Higher education institutions are scheduled to reopen for classroom attendance starting from October 19, with the exception also being universities in the western Adjara region.

Chkhenkeli reiterated that school students in grades 1 to 6 will have the option to return to classroom attendance starting from October 1. However, distance learning will continue to be an available option.

11:20 GMT+4 – All Three Deceased Had Underlying Conditions

With three more COVID-related fatalities reported in Georgia today, the total number of fatalities reached 31. According to information provided by the Ministry of Health of Adjara and Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, all three deceased had underlying conditions.

The first deceased patient, a 65-year-old man, was receiving care at the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital. The patient’s condition was assessed as critical upon admission to the clinic as he suffered from a myocardial infarction, diabetes, and bilateral hydrothorax.

The second deceased, a 70-year-old male, was also receiving care at the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital. His condition was evaluated as difficult when he entered the clinic, given that the patient underwent a stroke and a vegetative state.

The third deceased, according to Marina Endeladze, was a 57-year-old woman receiving care in Tbilisi. The patient developed severe respiratory distress syndrome due to her preexisting underlying conditions.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 298 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, 175 were confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 38 cases were confirmed in Imereti; 32 in Tbilisi; 16 in Guria; 14 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 11 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 7 in Kvemo Kartli, and 4 in Kakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – Tskhinvali Region’s Chief Sanitary Doctor Tests Positive for COVID-19

Marina Kochieva, the chief sanitary doctor of occupied Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia, has tested positive for novel coronavirus, S. Ossetian press reports. Kochieva confirmed that her test showed a positive result, noting that she will work remotely.

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali recorded 94 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the outbreak of the pandemic.

11:00 GMT+4 – Record 298 Daily New Cases, 148 New Recoveries, 3 Fatalities Reported

Georgia has reported a record 298 new cases, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the country (excluding occupied territories) to 5,552. In the meantime, 148 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 2,054. NCDC Georgia also reported 3 more COVID-related fatalities, with the total number of fatalities reaching 31. The number of active cases to date stands at 3,441.

Sunday, September 27

19:00 GMT+4 – 46 New Cases, 31 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Kremlin-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 46 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the occupied region’s tally of total confirmed cases to 1,332. In the meantime, 31 new patients have recovered, taking the overall number of recoveries to 400. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 923. 

11:00 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 294 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the greatest number – 193 – was once again confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 46 cases were confirmed in Tbilisi; 16 in Guria; 14 in Imereti; 11 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 5 in Samtskhe-Javakheti, 5 in Kvemo Kartli, 4 in Shida Kartli; 2 in Kakheti, and 1 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti.

10:30 GMT+4 – 294 New Cases, 87 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 294 new cases, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the country (excluding occupied territories) to 5,254. In the meantime, 87 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1,906. The number of active cases to date stands at 3,294.

Saturday, September 26

19:00 GMT+4 – 41 New Cases, 3 More Recoveries, 9th Fatality Reported in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 41 cases of COVID-19 overnight, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1286. In the meantime, 3 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 369, and another COVID-19-infected patient died – the 9th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 908. 

16:00 – 28th Fatality Reported

A 28th COVID-19-related death was reported in Georgia, according to recently released data on Stopcov.ge.

15:50- Interior Ministry Launches Investigation on Death of a Person in Telavi Quarantine Zone

According to the Interior Ministry, investigation was launched on incitement to  suicide, under Article 115 of Criminal Code of Georgia.

Interior Ministry states that investigation has established that personnel of one of the hotels in Telavi, where a quarantine zone is arranged, found the body of a 29-year-old man who had been quarantined after returning from France on September 24.

Interior Ministry says that the body has been transferred for autopsy.

11:00 GMT+4 – Breakdown of Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 296 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the greatest number – 166 – was once again confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 55 cases were confirmed in the Imereti region; 41 in Tbilisi; 18 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 9 in Guria; 3 in Kvemo Kartli; 1 in Samtskhe-Javakheti, and 1 in Kakheti.

10:30 GMT+4 – Record 296 Daily New Cases, 60 New Recoveries

Georgia has reported 296 new cases of COVID-19, another daily record, increasing the tally of total confirmed cases to 4,960. In the meantime, 60 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1819. The number of active cases to date stands at 3,088.

Friday, September 25

19:00 GMT+4 – 68 New Cases, 6 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 68 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1245. In the meantime, 6 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 366. With 8 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 871. 

17:37 GMT+4 – Two New Cases in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia have reported two new cases of COVID-19 in the region, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 93. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at three.

11:40 GMT + 4 – 27th Deceased Had Underlying Conditions

The 27th reported COVID-related fatality was a 54-year-old male who had a number of underlying conditions according to the chief physician of the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital.

The patient was admitted to the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital on September 20 in critical condition and passed away on September 25 at 10:00 AM. Other than testing positive for the coronavirus, the deceased was suffering from 80% lung damage, thymus cancer, cardiac failure, respiratory failure, and fever.

11:10 GMT+4  – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 265 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the greatest number – 165 – was once again confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 27 cases were confirmed in the Imereti region; 6 in Kakheti; 43 in Tbilisi; 6 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 5 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 3 in Kvemo Kartli, and 2 in Shida Kartli.

11:00 GMT+4 – 265 New Cases, 54 More Recoveries, 27th Fatality Reported

Georgia has reported 265 new cases of COVID-19 virus, increasing the tally of total confirmed cases to 4,664. In the meantime, 54 more recoveries were reported, bringing the number of recoveries to 1759. NCDC Georgia also reported another COVID-related fatality, with the total number of fatalities reaching 27. The number of active cases to date stands at 2,853.

Thursday, September 24

19:00 GMT+4 – 61 New Cases, 30 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 61 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1177. In the meantime, 30 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 360. With 8 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 809. 

17:30 GMT+4 – New Case Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported one new case of COVID-19, in the village of Tsinagari. 

Russian-backed authorities state this is the first recorded case of COVID-19 since August 30, making it the 91st infection and the only active case of the virus at the moment.  

13:50 GMT+4 – Schools to Reopen Starting October 1

Head of the Government Administration Natia Mezvrishvili announced that students in grades 1 to 6 will be able to physically attend classes in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Rustavi and Zugdidi. All students in Gori and Poti will be going back to school from October 1, regardless of their grade.

Education institutions in the Adjara region will remain closed until further notice, according to the Interagency Coordination Council.

13:50 GMT+4 – New Restrictions Announced in Adjara Region

Starting from September 25, restaurants operating in the western Adjara region will no longer be able to serve customers past 22:00, according to Natia Mezvrishvili, head of the Government Administration.

The Interagency Coordination Council also announced that all public transportation in the region will be temporarily suspended to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

13:30 GMT+4 – 26th Fatality Reported

A 26th COVID-19-related death was reported in Georgia, according to recently released data on Stopcov.ge. NCDC head Amiran Gamkrelidze said the deceased was a 70-year-old male from the Adjara region who was already suffering from ischemic heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease upon entering the hospital on September 17.

11:20 GMT+4 – PM Gakharia Claims Systemic Restrictions not on the Agenda

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia commented on the spike in COVID-19 cases, and assured the public that the “healthcare system is fully ready to clinically manage this process.” However, the PM added that “the virus has gone nowhere”, and that citizens must learn to “coexist with the virus.”

PM Gakharia underlined that  the virus should be contained through “discipline”, instead of imposing restrictions and closing down the economy. According to the PM, any theoretical restriction that could be put in place would be “purposive” and “local”, not “systemic”. “We cannot afford systemic restrictions in areas of our lives such as the economy, education, and the election process,” the PM said. PM Gakharia also announced that the Interagency Coordination Council will be meeting today to discuss ways to reopen education institutions, while taking existing risks into account.

11:10 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 259 infections diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the biggest number – 164 – was again confirmed in the western Adjara region. As for the other parts of Georgia, 34 were confirmed in the capital city of Tbilisi, 22 in the western Imereti region (15 in Kutaisi, 1 in Terjola, 3 in Tskaltubo, 1 in Sachkhere, 2 in Bagdati), 15 in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, 1 in the city of Gori, 1 in Marneuli, 1 in Mtskheta and 5 new cases were imported from abroad.

11:00 GMT+4 – 259 New Cases, 62 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 259 new cases of COVID-19 virus, increasing the tally of total confirmed cases to 4399. In the meantime, 62 more recoveries were reported, bringing the number of recoveries to 1705. With the total number of fatalities reaching 25, the number of active cases to date stands at 2643.

Wednesday, September 23

19:30 GMT+4 – 62 New Cases, 19 Recoveries, 1 More Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 62 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1116. In the meantime, 19 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 330. With 8 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 778. 

13:00 GMT+4 – U.S EUCOM Donates Ultrasound Machine to Rukhi Hospital

The United States (U.S) European Command (EUCOM) has donated a USD 35,000 (GEL 113,750) multifunctional ultrasound machine to the Rukhi Republican Hospital. The Philip Affinity 50 ultrasound machine is recommended by the United States Food and Drug Administration due to its high quality images, sensitivity programs, modern design, and high accuracy.

The donation ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories Giorgi Tsotskolauri, acting Deputy Chief of the U.S Ambassador Catherine Schweitzer , Medical Holding Director Giorgi Chogovadze and US Defense Attaché Colonel Stephanie Begley.

12:12 GMT+4 – 25th Fatality Reported, 2nd in a Day

25th COVID-19-related death was reported in Georgia, according to the updated data on Stopcov.ge. This is the 2nd COVID-19-related fatality recorded in one day.

11:20 GMT+4 – 24th Deceased Patient Had Underlying Conditions, Was COVID-19-Negative Upon Death

The 24th COVID-19-infected patient who has died over the last 24 hours had multiple underlying diseases, Marina Endeladze from Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases said. According to the doctor, the 70-year-old man, who was hospitalized on August 18 with double pneumonia, had been newly operated for laryngeal cancer and suffered from other underlying medical conditions such as bullous emphysema, anemia, and pulmonary thromboembolism in the right lung. Although the patient had already recovered from COVID-19, as he had tested negative on 3-4 September, he still succumbed to complications from his underlying illnesses.

11:10 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 227 infections diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the biggest number – 165 – was again confirmed in the western Adjara region. As for the other parts of Georgia, 34 were confirmed in the capital city of Tbilisi, 14 in the western Imereti region (12 in Kutaisi, 2 in Terjola), 4 in the city of Rustavi, Kvemo Kartli region, 4 in the Guria region (Ozurgeti – 3, Lanchkhuti – 1), 2 in the city of Zugdidi, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, and 1 in the Dusheti Municipality of Mtskheta-Mtianeti region.

11:00 GMT+4 – 227 New Cases, 69 More Recoveries, 24th Fatality Recorded

Georgia has reported 227 new cases of COVID-19 virus, increasing the tally of total confirmed cases to 4140. In the meantime, 75 more recoveries were reported, bringing the number of recoveries to 1649. NCDC Georgia also noted another fatality, with the total number of fatalities reaching 24. The number of active cases to date stands at 2441.

Tuesday, September 22

19:30 GMT+4 – 59 New Cases, 26 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 59 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1054. In the meantime, 26 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 311. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 736. 

16:00 GMT+4 – 3rd Fatality Reported in One Day, Patient from “Uncontrolled Territory”

Third fatality was reported by Georgian authorities in a day, with the total number of COVID-19-related deaths reaching 23. As specified by NCDC Head Amiran Gamkrelidze during the press conference, the deceased was “a very critical patient, also transferred from the ‘uncontrolled territory’.” (On September 18, Gamkrelidze had mentioned 4 critically ill patients on assisted ventilation transferred from Abkhazia for medical treatment, one of which died on September 20 in Kutaisi).

11:10 GMT+4 – Both Deceased Had Underlying Diseases, Doctor Says

Both of the two COVID-19-infected patients who have died over the last 24 hours were suffering from multiple chronic underlying diseases and were in critical condition, Marina Endeladze from Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases said. The first deceased, a 67-year-old man, had diabetes, arterial hypertension, stroke, and atrial fibrillation. The other deceased patient – a 77-year-old woman – was suffering from diabetes, stroke, cerebral atrophy, and myocardial ischemia.

11:05 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 218 infections diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the biggest number – 137 – was again confirmed in the western Adjara region. As for the other parts of Georgia, 47 were confirmed in the capital city of Tbilisi, 26 in the western Imereti region, 6 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, and 2 in Guria.

11:00 GMT+4 – 218 New Cases, 40 New Recoveries, Two More Fatalities Recorded

Georgia has reported 218 new cases of COVID-19 virus, increasing the tally of total confirmed cases to 3913. In the meantime, 40 more recoveries were reported, bringing the number of recoveries to 1574. NCDC Georgia also noted two more COVID-19 fatalities, increasing the number of COVID-related deaths in the country to 22. The number of active cases to date stands at 2291.

Monday, September 21

20:00 GMT+4 – 56 New Cases, 25 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 56 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 995. In the meantime, 25 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 285. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 703. 

16:00 GMT+4 – Abkhaz Authorities Request SPUTNIK V Vaccine from Russia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have sent an oral request to Russia to purchase the Russian SPUTNIK V coronavirus vaccine. According to the “health minister” of the occupied region Tamaz Tsakhnakia, “the Russian side is considering the request”, given that “the third stage of the vaccine trial has not yet been completed, and therefore is not yet widely used in Russia.” Should the decision be made, Abkhaz authorities are expecting to import “a batch of about 15 – 20 thousand doses” of the Russian Vaccine.

11:05 GMT+4 – The 20th Fatality was a Patient Transferred from Abkhazia

The 20th deceased patient in Georgia was one of the 4 critically ill patients transferred from occupied Abkhazia to Tbilisi-controlled territory for medical treatment, Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, confirmed today. The 60 year-old-woman, who was also suffering from an underlying disease [not specified], could not recover and died on September 20 in a hospital in Kutaisi.

11:00 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 193  infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, 92 were confirmed in the Adjara region. As for the other parts of Georgia, 53 were confirmed in the Imereti region, 31 were confirmed in Tbilisi, 8 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, 7 in Guria,  and 1 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti and Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti each.

10:30 GMT+4 – 193 New Cases, 40 New Recoveries, 20th Fatality Recorded

Georgia has reported 193 new cases of COVID-19 virus, increasing the tally of total confirmed cases to 3,695. In the meantime, 40 more recoveries were reported, bringing the number of recoveries to 1,534. NCDC Georgia also noted 20th COVID-19 fatality. The number of active cases to date stands at 2115.

Sunday, September 20

19:00 GMT+4 – 61 New Cases, 15 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 61 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 939. In the meantime, 15 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 255. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 677. 

11:00 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 196  infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the biggest number – 128 – was again confirmed in the Adjara region. As for the other parts of Georgia, 30 were confirmed in Tbilisi, 19 in Kutaisi -Imereti region, 6 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, 5 in Kvemo Kartli, 4 in Guria,  2 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 1 in Shida Kartli and Kakheti each.

10:40 GMT+4 – 196 New Cases, 13 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 196 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 3,502. In the meantime, the number of recoveries rose by 13 to 1494. The number of active cases to date stands at 1,963.

Saturday, September 19

20:00 GMT+4 – 53 New Cases, 5 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 53 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 878. In the meantime, 5 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 240. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 631.

11:10 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 187 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the biggest number – 116 – were again confirmed in the Adjara region. As for the other parts of Georgia, 30 were confirmed in Tbilisi, 15 in Imereti, 11 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, 4 in Guria, 3 in Kakheti, 2 in Kvemo Kartli, also 2 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 1 in Samtkshe Javakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 187 New Cases, 46 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 187 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 3,306. In the meantime, the number of recoveries rose by 46 to 1481. The number of active cases to date stands at 1,780.

Friday, September 18

19:00 GMT+4 – 43 New Cases, 9 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 43 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 825. In the meantime, 9 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 235. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 583.

17:05 GMT+4 – 4 out of 5 Patients on Assisted Ventilation from Abkhazia

According to NCDC Head Amiran Gamkrelidze, Georgia is currently treating 13 critically ill COVID-19 patients, with 5 of them on assisted ventilation. Out of these five, four have been transferred from the occupied Abkhazia. “As you know, we actively help the region of Abkhazia and if there are any severe cases, we quickly transfer them to the territory under our [Tbilisi] control for medical assistance,” Gamkrelidze said.

17:00 GMT+4 – NCDC Head on why Georgia Remains in Green Zone

The average country-wide COVID-19 incidence rate – a person/time ratio showing how quickly the disease is spreading among population – has been 2.93 per 100,000 persons in Georgia over the last 2 weeks, NCDC Head Amiran Gamkrelidze explained, adding that Georgia remains in a safe “green zone” unless the rate surpasses 5. According to Gamkrelidze, Georgia will move to a yellow/orange zone, should the rate reach 5-20, and only at a rate higher than 20 the country will go into a red zone.

However, despite the overall safe outlook, the average incidence rate has been 19,4 for the Adjara region, turning it into a yellow zone, while the incidence rate for Tbilisi, calculated as per last 5 days, stands at 1.94.

16:00 GMT+4 – U.S Embassy Donates Personal Protection Equipment to CEC

The U.S Embassy has donated over $73,000 worth of latex gloves, face shield masks, and disinfectants to the Georgian Central Election Committee (CEC) through the U.S. European Command’s Humanitarian Assistance project. The aim of the donation is to assist the Georgian CEC in conducting the October elections in the safest conditions possible.

“The United States is proud to continue to work with our Georgian partners to protect the health and safety of the people of Georgia,” the U.S Embassy in Georgia writes. 

12:00 GMT+4 – Abkhazia to Re-introduce Some COVID-19 Measures

Kremlin-backed Abkhaz leader Aslan Bzhania signed an order to reintroduce restrictive measures aimed at preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus in the occupied region starting from October 5.

The restrictions include prohibiting mass, sports, and entertainment events; prohibiting weddings; limiting the number of persons participating in mourning and memorial events; obligating market administrations and cultural institutions to observe COVID-19 guidelines by the medical officers.

11:10 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 182 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, 129 were confirmed in Adjara. Specifically, 114 cases were diagnosed in Batumi; 11 in Kobuleti; 3 in Keda, and 1 in Shuakhevi.

As for the remaining cases, 34 tested positive for the disease in Tbilisi; 11 in Imereti; 4 in Rustavi; 3 in Guria, and 1 in Kakheti.

10:50 GMT+4 – 182 New Cases, 13 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 182 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 3,119. In the meantime, the number of recoveries rose by 13 to 1435. The number of active cases to date stands at 1,639.

Thursday, September 17

19:00 GMT+4 – 26 New Cases, 20 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Kremlin-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 26 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 782. In the meantime, 20 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 226. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 549.

16:00 GMT+4 – Wizz Air to Renew Flights, Berlin Flight Subsidized for Returning Students, and Changes in Enterprise Georgia Budget

Georgian PM Giorgi Gakharia announced that budget airline Wizz Air will be renewing flights from Kutaisi to Riga, starting from October 1. The flight to Riga will be available once a week. “As of today, direct flights from Tbilisi to Europe are open for international airlines such as Lufthansa, Air France, Airbaltic, as well as for our national carrier,” the PM added.

In addition, Gakharia declared that a subsidized flight has been scheduled for Georgian students returning to Berlin seeking to continue their studies.

The PM also emphasized the importance of using microgrant programs, such as Enterprise Georgia, as a measure to overcome the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Gakharia announced that the budget of Enterprise Georgia will be increased to GEL 41 mln, while the upper limit amount for one-time funding will be increased from GEL 20,000 to GEL 30,000.

11:10 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

As explained by Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 170 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, 126 were confirmed in Adjara; 16 in Imereti; 15 in Tbilisi; 7 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 7 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 3 in Guria; 4 in Kakheti.

In total, according to the Ezugbaia, there are 9 critical patients in the country; whereas, the number of severe patients stands at under 70.

10:30 GMT+4 – 179 New Cases, 10 More Recoveries

As of today, Georgia has reported 179 cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 2,937. In the meantime, 10 more patients have recovered, making the number of recoveries 1,422.

Wednesday, September 16

19:30 GMT+4 – 30 New Cases, 6 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 30 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 756. In the meantime, 6 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 198. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 551.

14:00 GMT+4 – All Entering and Exiting Batumi will Undergo Thermal Screening

Head of the Government Administration Natia Mezvrishvili announced that all entering and exiting Batumi will undergo thermal screening; in cases of high temperature, travelers will be tested for the coronavirus. In addition, mass thermal screening will be arranged in commercial establishments. 

11:00 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

As explained by Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 196 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, 144 were confirmed in Batumi; 29 in Tbilisi; 7 in Kutasi; 1 in Sachkhere; 4 in Gori; 3 in Gardabani; 4 in Ozurgeti; 2 in Zugdidi; 1 in Poti, and 1 in Mtskheta.

10:20 GMT+4 – Record 196 Daily Cases, 31 More Recoveries Reported

Georgia has reported record 196 cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 2,758. In the meantime, 31 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1,412.

Tuesday, September 15

19:30 GMT+4 –  Record Daily 52 Cases, 6 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported record high daily 52 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 726. In the meantime, 6 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 192. With 7 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 527.

16:00 GMT+4 – IMF Staff Assesses its Virtual Mission to Georgia

An IMF team held virtual meetings during September 8-14, 2020, to discuss recent economic and financial developments and progress of structural reforms in Georgia. Following the end of the mission, the IMF team released the following findings:

12:30 GMT+4 – Central Bank Reports an Increase in Money Transfers in August

The National Bank of Georgia reports a 25.8% increase in the volume of money transfers in August 2020 in comparison to August 2019. Money transfers from abroad equaled USD 184.2 mln (GEL 566.2 mln) in August which is USD 37.8 mln more than the volume of money transfers in August last year. 

An overwhelming majority, 95.1%, of money transfers from abroad came from 19 of the largest partner countries; the volume of transfers from each exceeded USD 1 mln in August 2020. The share of the total volume of money transfers of the same 19 countries constituted 93.4% in August 2019. 

In addition, USD 23.1 mln (GEL 71.1 mln) was transferred from Georgia abroad in August 2020 – a 21% increase in comparison to the USD 19 mln sent abroad in August 2019.

11:15 GMT+4 – Georgia Reports 11 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 11 more recoveries, taking the number of recoveries to 1,381. The tally of total confirmed cases to date stands at 2562, while the number of active cases is at 1136.

11:00 GMT+4 – Abkhazia Records 7th Fatality

Moscow-backed authorities in occupied Abkhazia reported the 7th COVID-19-related fatality today. According to media reports, the emergency medical service found an 84-year-old woman, who had been undergoing home treatment, with acute shortness of breath and critically low oxygen levels. On the way to the hospital, the patient suffered cardiac arrest and the doctors could not resuscitate her. A test taken following her death confirmed she was COVID-positive.

11:00 GMT+4 – Ezugbaia on Origins of New Cases

As explained by Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 170 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, 124 were confirmed in Batumi; 20 in Tbilisi; 13 in Kutaisi; 6 in Zugdidi; 3 in Ozurgeti; 3 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 1 in Tsageri.

10:45 GMT+4 – 170 New Cases, Highest Daily Spike

Georgia reports 170 new cases of COVID-19, the highest daily spike recorded since the outbreak of the pandemic, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 2562.

10:00 GMT+4 – Russia Lifts Travel Restrictions for Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has signed a decree to lift the travel restrictions with occupied Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia. 

“Russia is opening the border with South Ossetia, as well as lifting restrictions for certain specialists on entry into and departure from the country imposed due to the spread of the novel coronavirus infection,” the press service of the cabinet said.

Monday, September 14

19:30 GMT +4 – 18 New Cases in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 18 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 674. With 186 recoveries and 6 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 482.

15:00 GMT + 4  – Adjara Gov’t Postpones Classroom Attendance in Khulo, Shuakhevi and Keda

Deputy Speaker of the Adjara government announced that classroom attendance in schools in Khulo, Shuakhevi, and Keda will be postponed until October 1. Distance learning in Adjara will begin tomorrow.

The decision comes after a single resource center employee in the Adjara highlands tested positive for COVID-19.

15:00 GMT + 4 – Additional Checkpoints Installed, Classroom Attendance Postponed in Matani, Zoti, Chkhakaura and Kitsnisi

Head of the Government Administration Natia Mezvrishvili announced that checkpoints for thermal screening and testing have been installed in the village of Matani in the Akhmeta Municipality, in the villages of Zoti and Chkhakaura in the Chokhatauri Municipality, and in the village of Kitsnisi in the Gori Municipality due to a rise in COVID-19 cases. All entering and exiting the villages must undergo a temperature check and testing at the checkpoints, though no lockdown or strict quarantine measures have been imposed. 

Schools in the villages mentioned above will also make use of distance learning until October 1. The measure of postponing classroom attendance is already in place in major Georgian cities.  

11:30 GMT +4 – Ezugbaia on Origins of New Cases

As explained by Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 165 infections diagnosed over last 24 hours, 109 were confirmed in Batumi; 17 in Tbilisi; 9 in Zugdidi; 9 in Gardabani; 6 in Gori; 6 in Gurjaani; 4 in Ozurgeti; 4 in Kutaisi; 1 in Mtskheta.

Marina Ezugbaia noted that infections in Gori and Akhmeta Municipality were related to a wedding held on September 5, that some 100 people attended. Ezugbaia urged people to refrain from attending large-scale social events.

10:30 GMT +4 – Checkpoints Installed in Akhmeta Municipality

Police installed checkpoints for thermal screening and testing in the village of Matani in Akhmeta Municipality, in the Kakheti region. According to the statement released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, any person entering or exiting the village will undergo testing and a temperature check. Interior Ministry notes that lockdown or other strict quarantine measures are not being imposed in Matani or other villages of Akhmeta Municipality.

10:00 GMT +4 – 165 New Cases

Georgia has reported 165 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 2,392. One more patient has recovered as of today, bringing the number of recoveries to 1,370. The number of active cases to date stands at 977.

Sunday, September 13

19:15 GMT +4 – 16 New Cases, 16 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 16 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 656. In the meantime, 16 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 186. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 464.

12:30 GMT+4 – MP Gedevan Popkhadze Tests Positive for COVID-19 

Independent MP Gedevan Popkhadze has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement made by Solidarity Alliance of Georgia.  

Gedevan Popkhadze is a former member of the Georgian Dream and one of the founding members of the Solidarity Alliance of Georgia party. Another member, Levan Gogichaishvili, was also recently diagnosed with COVID-19. 

10:00 GMT+4 – 152 New Cases, 6 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 152 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 2,227. In the meantime, six more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1,369. The number of active cases to date stands at 813.

Saturday, September 12

19:00 GMT+4 – 30 New Cases, 5 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 30 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 640. In the meantime, five more patient has recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 170. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 464.

10:00 GMT+4 – 158 New Cases, 9 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 158 new cases of COVID-19, the highest daily jump for the country since the start of the pandemic, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 2075. In the meantime, 9 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1368. The number of active cases stands at 667.

Friday, September 11

19:30 GMT+4 – 38 New Cases, 1 More Recovery in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 38 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 610. In the meantime, one more patient has recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 165. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 439.

16:30 GMT+4 – Around 2100 Teachers to be Tested on COVID-19

Around 2100 teachers who visited the high-risk Adjara region will be tested on COVID-19, NCDC Head Amiran Gamkrelidze confirmed.

“Around 2100 teachers visited the Adjarian sea coast this summer. We have all of them recorded. The teachers have been sent the relevant information. We will test all of them, starting from today,” said Gamkrelidze.

The NCDC chief also noted that the Center adopted a strategy of randomly investigating 45000 teachers countrywide in order to prevent them from going to schools infected.

15:00 GMT+4 – Classroom School, University Learning Postponed in Largest Cities 

The Interagency Coordination Council, tasked with managing the coronavirus pandemic, announced that physical attendance in schools and higher education institutions will be postponed in Tbilisi, Gori, Kutaisi, Rustavi, Zugdidi and Poti until October 1.

Starting from September 15, education institutions in the six cities will make use of distance learning for the first two weeks of the fall semester. The same measure was already in place for schools and higher education institutions in Batumi.

PM Giorgi Gakharia stated that the two week period is necessary to “correctly assess current risks.”

11:00 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

As explained by Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 87 infections recorded over the last 24 hours, 29 cases relate to the city of Batumi, Adjara region, and 5 more have a travel history to Adjara. 24 new infections are linked to a newly formed cluster in one of the schools in Kutaisi, Imereti region. 12 persons contracted the disease from earlier confirmed cases, 4 infections were imported, and 3 more cases were confirmed among medical staff. Source-tracing of 10 new infections is underway.

09:50 GMT+4 – 87 New Cases, Highest Daily Record, 20 More Recoveries Reported

NCDC Georgia has reported 87 new cases of COVID-19, the highest daily spike since the start of the pandemic in late February. This brings the tally of total confirmed cases to 1917. In the meantime, 20 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1354. The number of active cases to date stands at 518.

Thursday, September 10

19:00 GMT+4 – Health Ministry Spent Over GEL 37 million on COVID-19 Preventive Measures in 6 Months

According to the state budget 6-month performance data published by the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health spent more than GEL 37 million (USD 11.9 million) on COVID-19 preventive measures in the past six months.

18:15 GMT+4 – 15 New Cases, 6 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 15 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 572. In the meantime, six more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 164. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 402.

17:00 GMT+4 – Checkpoints Installed in Two Villages of Tsageri Municipality

Police installed checkpoints for thermal screening and testing in the villages of Orbeli and Lajana in Tsageri Municipality, in the western Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti region, as part of the government’s steps to prevent the spread of the virus. According to the statement released by the Ministry of Interior, each person entering or exiting respective villages will undergo testing and temperature checks. No lockdown or strict quarantine measures are imposed in the villages, police say.

13:00 GMT+4 – Abkhazia Reports 6th COVID Fatality

Russia-backed Abkhaz authorities reported the sixth COVID-19-related fatality in Gudauta hospital. A 78-year-old patient, who also suffered from underlying diseases, including diabetes, hypertensive disease and chronic kidney disease, reportedly died after developing virus-induced double pneumonia on September 9.

12:00 GMT+4 – Prime Minister Speaks of “Second Wave”

Speaking about the recent spike in infection cases at the government meeting today, Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia noted that the second wave of the COVID-19 in Georgia is, as expected, starting in Autumn. Prime Minister assured there was “no reason to panic” as the situation is under control, recalling the rapid steps taken by the government “from the first day of the spread of the virus.”

11:00 GMT+4 – Ezugbaia on Origins of New Cases

As explained by Marina Ezugbaia, Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 57 infections confirmed over the last 24 hours, 15 cases relate to the city of Batumi, with 5 additional cases from the Batumi confectionery cluster, and 4 more have a travel history to the Adjara region. 18 persons contracted the disease from earlier confirmed cases, 5 more medical workers were infected, and three cases were imported from abroad. According to Ezugbaia, a total of 25 out of 57 infections can be traced to the Adjara region, while source-tracing of 8 new cases is underway.

Also, the incidence rate (probability of occurrence of the virus over the last two weeks) has reportedly continued to grow overnight, with a nationwide rate of 10.2 infections per 100 000 persons (compared to 9 yesterday) and 52,9 in the Adjara region (47,8).

10:00 GMT+4 – 57 New Cases, 9 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 57 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1 830. In the meantime, 9 more patients recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1 334. The number of active cases to date stands at 451.

Wednesday, September 9

20:00 GMT+4 – 21 More Cases in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia reported 21 more cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 557. With 158 recoveries and 5 fatalities so far, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 394.

18:00 GMT+4 – Parliament of Georgia Releases Statement on MP Testing Positive for COVID-19

According to a statement issued by the Parliament of Georgia, all who have come in contact with MP Levan Gogichaishvili after September 5 will undergo self-isolation and testing, as recommended by the NCDC. The parliament building will also be regularly disinfected.

“The legislative body will continue to function in accordance with WTO and NCDC recommendations,” the statement reads.

17:00 GMT+4 – MP Gogichaishvili Tests Positive for COVID-19

Independent MP Levan Gogichaishvili and his wife Vika Bukia, journalist at TV Pirveli, have both tested positive for the novel coronavirus, marking the first instance of the disease infecting a member of the Parliament. The source of the infection has yet to be identified.

Levan Gogichaishvili is a former member of the Georgian Dream party, and one of the founding members of the Our Georgia – Solidarity Alliance party.

Following Gogichaishvili’s positive test result, Our Georgia – Solidarity Alliance has announced that the party will be temporarily pausing its pre-election campaign. All members of the party have been scheduled for testing.

12:00 GMT+4 – Government Reintroduces Several Restrictions

As announced in today’s press conference, due to a recent spike in infection cases, the reopening of cinemas and theaters, previously scheduled to take place during September 15 and October 1, will be postponed until November 1. The Government reintroduced the ban on large-scale social events, including weddings, funerals, birthdays, and other rites, both indoors and outdoors. Cultural and sports events involving over 200 attendants will also be banned. The new restrictions will not apply to election campaign events.

12:00 GMT+4 – Health Minister: Part of Patients to Сontinue Treatment in Hotels

Minister of Health Ekaterine Tikaradze announced new Covid-19 management plans, saying that, starting today, part of the infected patients will be transferred to hotels to continue their treatment “under medical supervision”. Only asymptomatic patients from the 18-65 age group with no chronic underlying illnesses will be subject to the new rules, Minister noted, adding that three hotels in Tbilisi, Batumi (Adjara region), and Kutaisi (Imereti region) were made available to host COVID-19-infected persons.

12:00 GMT+4 – Gamkrelidze on Origins of New Cases

As explained by the Director of the NCDC Amiran Gamkrelidze during the press conference, 7 out of 44 new infections are connected to the confectionery cluster in Batumi, Adjara, 12 others are also linked with Batumi. 12 persons have contracted the virus from earlier confirmed cases, 2 others have a travel history to an epidemiological hotspot, while 5 cases have been imported from abroad. There are also three newly confirmed infections among the medical staff. Sources for 3 new infections are being traced. Another patient has been transferred for treatment from the region of Abkhazia, Gamkrelidze said, adding that 25 total new cases from today are connected to the Adjara region.

10:00 GMT+4 – 44 New Cases, 4 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 44 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1773. In the meantime, four more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1325. The number of active cases to date stands at 403, the highest since the start of the pandemic.

Tuesday, September 8

20:00 – 20 New Cases, 1 More Recovery in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 20 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 536. In the meantime, one more patient has recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 158. The number of active cases in Georgia’s Russian-occupied region stands at 373.

13:00 GMT+4 – CEC Press Speaker Addresses Voting from Quarantine

During a public briefing, CEC Press Speaker Ana Mikeladze announced that the Committee is considering ways to enable citizens undergoing mandatory quarantine to vote during the October elections.

The press speaker highlighted that the issue remains to be undecided as CEC is currently waiting for feedback and recommendations from healthcare specialists on the matter.

“We have enough time to develop appropriate protocol and to inform the public. A polling station could be opened in quarantine areas and there could be a transferable ballot box”, Mikeladze said. The press speaker also stated that CEC is working towards providing all voters with face masks. 

11:00 GMT+4 – Ezugbaia Explains Breakdown of New Cases

Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, Marina Ezugbaia told journalists today that out of 45 new COVID cases three are connected to confectionery in the city of Batumi in Adjara region, 19 have contracted the disease from other patients, 4 of them are medical workers in Aversi clinic in Rustavi, four cases are imported, including a truck driver, 12 patients had traveled to Adjara, the source of infection for three remaining cases are unknown for Georgian health authorities so far.

In sum, 23 cases are connected to Adjara region, Ezugbaia remarked. She added that Adjara has become a ‘red zone’.

10:10 GMT+4 – Record Daily 45 Cases, 6 More Recoveries Reported

Georgia has reported 45 new COVID cases today, a record single-day spike for the country since the outbreak of the pandemic. This brings Georgia’s tally of total confirmed cases to 1729. In the meantime, six more recoveries were reported, taking the number of recoveries to 1321. The number of active cases in the country (excluding Russian-occupied territories) to date stands at 363.

Monday, September 7

16:30 GMT +4 – Khopi Market Employee, and Teacher in Batumi Test Positive for COVID-19

Director of the NCDC Amiran Gamkrelidze confirmed that an employee at the so-called Khopi Bazaar has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Gamkrelidze announced that the location is closed today, and that mandatory testing of market employees is scheduled for tomorrow. 

According to the deputy head of the Adjara Public Health Center, a school teacher in Batumi has also tested positive for COVID-19. The teacher apparently came into contact with several colleagues during a meeting. All contacts have been identified and are undergoing PCR testing.  

15:30 GMT +4 – Mandatory Quarantine Period Reduced, PCR Tests Required for Foreigners

Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia announced that the mandatory quarantine period will be reduced from 12 to 8 days. In addition, from September 15 onwards, all foreign citizens entering Georgia must present a mandatory 72-hour PCR test results.

The new PCR test measure will also affect foreign citizens entering Georgia based on the reciprocal principle, who were previously exempt from COVID-19 related cautionary measures.

“This is of crucial importance, so that we may ensure the health of our citizens and of our visitors, and better control the spread of the virus”, the PM said.

The Prime Minister also announced that schooling will take place online in educational institutions in Batumi and Kobuleti until October 1.

12:15 GMT+4 – Adjara TV Back on Air after Negative Test Results

Adjara TV, a Batumi-based public broadcaster which went off the air on September 5 following a confirmed COVID-19 infection case among the staff, announced its return to broadcasting.

The decision to renew the broadcasting came after the initial test results of some 300 employees had turned out negative.

12 persons have been quarantined following two days of contact tracing, the channel reported.

10:00 GMT+4 – 34 New Cases, 5 More Recoveries

Georgia reports 34 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1684. In the meantime, the number of recoveries rose by 5, reaching 1315. The number of active cases to date stands at 342.

Sunday, September 6

19:00 GMT+4 – Abkhazia Reports 14 More Cases, 1 New Fatality

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia reported 14 more cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 516, while the number of recoveries remained at 157. In the meantime, another patient has died of infection, taking the number of COVID-related deaths to 5. As for today, there are 354 active cases in the region.

10:00 GMT+4 – 29 New Cases, 8 More Recoveries

Georgia reports 29 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1650. In the meantime, the number of recoveries rose by 8 to 1310. The number of active cases to date stands at 313.

Saturday, September 5

20:00 GMT+4 – 36 New Cases, 3 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported that 36 more patients have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 502. In the meantime, three more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 157. The number of active cases in the region stands at 341.

12:18 GMT+4 – Adjara TV Off the Air after Employee Tests Positive for COVID

The management of the Adjara TV, Batumi-based public broadcaster, decided to temporarily close the channel due to safety concerns following a confirmed infection case of an employee.

The future broadcasting format will be decided according to the testing results of more than 300 employees, the TV channel has reported.

Until then, the channel will be streaming the Georgian Public Broadcaster.

10:00 GMT+4 – 25 New Cases, 8 More Recoveries

Georgia reported 25 more cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1621. In the meantime, 8 more patients recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1302. The number of active cases to date stands at 292.

In Abkhazia, the tally of total confirmed cases stands at 466, of which 154 recovered and 4 died; the number of active cases in the Kremlin-backed region stands at 308.

In central Georgia’s Moscow-backed Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, 90 cases were recorded, all of which have recovered.

Friday, September 4

19:00 GMT+4 – 40 More Cases, 1 More Recovery in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia reported 40 more cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 466. In the meantime, one more patient recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 154. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 308.

12:25 – 90th Patient Recovers in Tskhinvali

Authorities in Georgia’s Russian-backed Tskhinvali region report that the last, 90th patient – a four-year-old that tested positive for the virus on August 30 –  has recovered. 

Since early May, Tkshinvali region/South Ossetia recorded 90 cases of the novel coronavirus, of which all of the patients had recovered.

10:00 GMT+4 – 28 New Cases, 15 More Recoveries

Georgia reports 28 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1596. In the meantime, the number of recoveries rose by 15 to 1294. The number of active cases to date stands at 275.

Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, Marina Ezugbaia told journalists today that of 28 new cases 12 belong to the cluster of Batumi confectionery (Adjara region), 3 contracted the disease from other COVID patients, 3 patients are medical workers from Aversi Clinic in Rustavi, 2 cases are imported, including one truck driver, 4 patients have contracted the disease while traveling in Adjara region. The health authorities are trying to uncover the source of infection for the remaining four cases, Ezugbaia added.

Thursday, September 3

19:00 GMT+4 – 42 Cases, 12 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported a record daily 42 cases, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 426. In the meantime, 12 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 153. The number of active cases in the region of less than a quarter-million people stands at 269.

17:00 GMT+4 – Ministry of Health, Lugar Center Targetted in Cyber Attack

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia said “one of the foreign intelligence services” carried out a cyberattack against the Ministry of Health and the Lugar Center.

The cyber-attack carried out on the computer system of the Health Ministry, reportedly aimed at illegal appropriation and use of medical records and pandemic management information stored in the databases of the central office of the Ministry of Health and its structural units including the Lugar Center.

Interior Ministry reported that some of the authentic documents obtained as a result of the cyber-attack are being uploaded to a foreign website, together with inauthentic, deliberately falsified documents.

15:20 GMT +4 – Four Night Clubs Closed Down in Batumi

Georgian Labour Inspection suspended operating licenses of four popular night clubs in Batumi. The government agency stated that inspections conducted on September 2-3 found clubs Soho, Sector 26, UP2U and Conte  not compliant with COVID-19 recommendations approved by the Ministry of Health. The clubs were also fined in the amount of GEL 10,000 (USD 3,240).

11:35 GMT+4 – Over 200 Foreigners Applied to “Work from Georgia”

The Prime Minister also spoke of “Work from Georgia” – a new initiative by the National Tourism Administration of Georgia designed to attract foreigners from 95 countries to work remotely from Georgia – a relatively virus-safe country – for at least 180 days. Giorgi Gakharia informed that 200 applications had already been submitted for the program and highlighted potential economic benefits of the program for Georgia.

11:30 GMT+4 – Loan Subsidy Program for Hotel Businesses Extended

Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia announced at the Government’s meeting that the loan subsidy program for companies involved in the hotel business will be extended from 6 to 12 months; besides, companies previously failed to join the program will now be allowed to do so from September 10 to October 10.

11:00 GMT+4 – 20 New Cases, 9 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 20 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1568. In the meantime, 9 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1279. The number of active cases to date stands at 262.

Wednesday, September 2

19:00 GMT+4 – 25 New Cases, 13 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Kremlin-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 25 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the region’s tally of total confirmed cases to 384. In the meantime, 13 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 138.

10:00 GMT+4 – 38 New Cases, 17 More Recoveries

Georgia has reported 38 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 1548. In the meantime, 17 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1270. The number of active cases to date stands at 251.

Medical Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, Marina Ezugbaia told journalists today that 22 of the 38 new patients belong to the cluster of confectionery in Batumi, western Georgia; as for the remaining 16 cases, 7 contracted the disease from the other patients, 4 were imported, while the source infection for five patients is unknown.

06:00 GMT+4 – Quarantine Dropped in Town of Mestia, Village Lenjeri

The town of Mestia and the nearby village of Lenjeri in historic upper Svaneti province reopens after 22 days.

Tuesday, September 1

19:00 GMT+4 – 29 New Cases, 5 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Kremlin-backed authorities in Abkhazia reported 29 cases, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 359. In the meantime, five more patients have recovered, bringing the number of recoveries to 125. The number of active cases in Abkhazia to date stands at 230.

10:00 GMT+4 – 23 New Cases, 13 More Recoveries

Georgia reports 23 new cases of COVID-19, which brings the tally of total confirmed cases to 1510. In the meantime, three more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 1253. The number of active cases to date, as counted by NCDC Georgia, stands at 240.

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