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

Saturday, October 31

18:00 GMT+4 – 73 New Cases, 10 Recoveries, 2 Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 73 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 4,233. In the meantime, 10 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 2,267. 2 more COVID-related fatalities were reported with 42 total fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,924.

14:30 GMT+4 – 148 New Cases in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 148 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 917. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 787. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,673 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the highest number of cases – 684 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 351 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 214 were diagnosed in Imereti; 75 in Kvemo Kartli; 86 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 98 in Shida Kartli; 52 in Kakheti;  33 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 41 in Guria; 23 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 16 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti.

511 patients are in severe condition, and 208 are on assisted ventilation. Out of the 22 COVID-related fatalities reported, 10 deaths were confirmed in Tbilisi; 7 in Adjara; 4 in Imereti, and 1 in Samtskhe-Javakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,673 Daily Cases, 2,881 Recoveries, 22 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,673 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 38,936. In the meantime, 2,075 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 22,691. 22 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 307. The number of active cases to date stands at 15,912.

Friday, October 30

18:00 GMT+4 – 34 New Cases, 5 Recoveries, 2 Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 34 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 4,160. In the meantime, 5 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 2,257. 2 more COVID-related fatalities were reported with 40 total fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic. the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,863.

14:00 GMT+4 – Anatoly Bibilov Recovers from COVID-19

Moscow-backed leader of occupied Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia Anatoly Bibilov has recovered from COVID-19, local media reported. Anatoly Bibilov tested positive for novel coronavirus on October 17.

14:00 GMT+4 – Tskhinvali Reports 22 Infection Cases in Temporary Detention Facilities

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali region reported 22 cases of COVID-19 infection in temporary detention prison cells. According to the local media, both, members of the staff and the detainees have tested positive for novel coronavirus.

12:00 GMT+4 – German Government Allocates EUR 20.8 Million to Georgia

Georgia and German Credit Reconstruction Bank (KfW) signed loan and grant agreements aiming social security “in the context of COVID-19 pandemic”.

The project considers allocation of EUR 15 Million to provide those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic with social assistance, while EUR 5.8 Million will be distributed to the population influenced by extreme poverty.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,696 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the highest number of cases – 683 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 381 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 313 were diagnosed in Imereti; 117 in Kvemo Kartli; 60 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 59 in Shida Kartli; 19 in Kakheti; 34 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 18 in Guria, 1 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 11 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti.

490 patients are in severe condition, and 121 are on assisted ventilation. Out of the 12 COVID-related fatalities reported, 4 deaths were confirmed in Tbilisi; 5 in Adjara; 2 in Imereti, and 1 in Shida Kartli.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,696 Daily Cases, 2,906 Recoveries, 12 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,696 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 37,263. In the meantime, 2,075 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 19,810. 12 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 285. The number of active cases to date stands at 17,142.

Thursday, October 29

18:00 GMT+4 – 68 New Cases, 99 Recoveries, 2 Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 68 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 4,126. In the meantime, 99 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 2,170. 2 more COVID-related fatalities were reported with 38 total fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic. the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,918.

11:40 GMT+4 – PM Says Gov’t Will Reimburse Utility Fees for Next 4 Months

According to Georgia’s Prime Minister (PM) Giorgi Gakharia, the Government will reimburse utility fees for households consuming less than 200 cubic meters of gas and 200 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month in November, December, January, and February. The reimbursement will also apply to water and cleaning bills.

“We believe this is highly important for people who lost their income due to the pandemic and the global crisis,” the PM underscored.

11:20 GMT+4 – 98 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 98 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 768. With 123 recoveries and 6 fatalities reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 639. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,709 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the highest number of cases – 445 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 437 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 388 were diagnosed in Imereti; 32 in Kvemo Kartli; 151 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 125 in Shida Kartli; 40 in Kakheti; 44 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 35 in Guria, and 12 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti.

511 patients are in severe condition, and 128 are on assisted ventilation. Out of the 20 COVID-related fatalities reported, 7 deaths were confirmed in Tbilisi; 9 in Adjara; 2 in Imereti; 1 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 1 in Kakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,709 Daily Cases, 2,075 Recoveries, 20 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,709 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 35,567. In the meantime, 2,075 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 16,904. 20 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 273. The number of active cases to date stands at 18,364.

Wednesday, October 28

18:00 GMT+4 – 106 New Cases, 22 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 106 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 4,058. In the meantime, 22 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 2,071. With 36 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,951.

17:24 GMT+4 – Tskhinvali Legislative Body Speaker Hospitalized with COVID-19

Moscow-backed authorities in the occupied Tskhinvali region reported that legislative body speaker Alan Tadtaev was hospitalized with COVID-19 after his condition worsened when undergoing treatment at home.

12:00 GMT+4 – 6th Patient Dies in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali region reported a sixth fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The deceased COVID-19-infected patient was a 52-year-old man. With 6 fatalities reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 551. 

11:25 GMT+4 – Russian Military Field Hospital Arrives in Tskhinvali

According to Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia, a military field hospital with 150 beds arrived in Tskhinvali on October 27 to treat patients with coronavirus infection. 

On October 21, Tskhinvali/South Ossetia defense ministry asked the Russian Ministry of Defense to deploy a 150-bed field hospital in the region, RES news agency reported.

11:20 GMT+4 – 47 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 47 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 670. With 113 recoveries and 5 fatalities reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 552. 

11:20 GMT+4 – Gov’t Starts Training Senior Medical Student

As the number of infected health workers rises, Education Minister Mikheil Chkhenkeli announced that a number of volunteer senior medical students have been enrolled in a fast COVID-19 training course to aid government efforts in the coronavirus management process.

Chkhenkeli said that a trained medical student reserve will be available on November 2 who, if necessary, will be deployed in quarantine zones, assist doctors in treating patients, and provide instructions to callers via COVID-19 hotlines.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,731 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the highest number of cases – 636 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 333 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 320 were diagnosed in Imereti; 121 in Kvemo Kartli; 119 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 76 in Shida Kartli; 45 in Kakheti; 39 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 18 in Guria; 9 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 15 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti

521 patients are in severe condition, and 120 are on assisted ventilation. Out of the 15 COVID-related fatalities reported, 4 deaths were confirmed in Tbilisi; 7 in Adjara, and 4 in Imereti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,731 Daily Cases, 2,197 Recoveries, 15 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,731 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 33,858. In the meantime, 2,197 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 14,829. 15 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 253. The number of active cases to date stands at 18,750.

Tuesday, October 27

18:00 GMT+4 – 113 New Cases, 10 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 113 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,952. In the meantime, 10 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,474. With 36 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 2,442.

17:00 GMT+4 – 30-59 Years Age Group with Most Infected Cases, NCDC Reports

According to the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health’s (NCDC) briefing, age-based incidence of COVID-19 infected cases is as follows: Patients aged 0-1 years – 1% of overall cases; patients aged 2-18 years – 13%; patients aged 19-29 years – 16%; patients aged 30-59 years – 50%; patients aged 60-79 years – 18%; patients aged 80 years or older – 2%.

As for fatality rate among age groups, 15% of the deceased were under 60 years old; 30% – between 60-70 years old; 53.4% were aged 70 years or older.

16:30 GMT+4 – 1,678 Health Workers Infected

Head of the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) Amiran Gamkrelidze reported that 1,678 health workers are infected with COVID-19 – 5.2% of overall active cases.

A 69-year-old female emergency doctor from Akhalkalaki, who passed away last morning at 7:00, is the only health worker to die from COVID-19 infection.

14:30 GMT+4 – 5th Patient Dies in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali region reported a fifth fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The deceased COVID-19-infected patient was a 81-year-old woman. With 5 fatalities reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 505. 

14:30 GMT+4 – Watchdog Remarks on Mobile Ballot Box Service

Transparency International (TI) Georgia, a local watchdog, issued remarks concerning the Central Election Commission’s (CEC) mobile ballot box service for self-isolated voters, expressing concern over a number of bureaucratic barriers hindering the voter registration process.

While welcoming CEC’s decision to extend the deadline for requesting the mobile ballot box service, TI Georgia underscored that given the the high number of self-isolated persons, it was evident that the initially allotted registration period, which was from October 24 to 26, would be insufficient.

TI Georgia noted that eligible voters in self-isolation are not sufficiently informed that they cannot be included in the mobile ballot box list without contacting the Ministry of Health first. According to the watchdog, after calling the CEC hotline with a registration request, voters are transferred to the Health Ministry’s hotline, leading to an overload of both hotline services. In addition, TI Georgia reported that even after the registration deadline was extended, the Health Ministry told eligible voters via its hotline that the registration process had already been concluded.

Noting that a number of people informed TI Georgia that the Ministry of Health did not have them in the list of voters in self-isolation, the watchdog said that the Ministry lacks an exhaustive list of persons in self-isolation, potentially leaving thousands of voters unable to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

TI Georgia recommended that CEC make use of an automatic registration system without requiring voters to contact the CEC hotline for registration. The watchdog also reiterated its previous request to CEC to set up special elections precincts in quarantine zones and medical institutions.

14:00 GMT+4 – CEC Update: Deadline for Requesting Mobile Ballot Box Extended to 18:00

According to the Central Election Commission (CEC), the deadline for requesting mobile ballot box service for self-isolated voters has been extended once again to 18:00, October 27.

The previous deadline expired today at 14:00.

13:00 GMT+4 – 4th Patient Dies in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali region reported a fourth fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The deceased COVID-19-infected patient was a 65-year-old man. With 4 fatalities reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 506. 

11:20 GMT+4 – 64 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 64 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 623. With 113 recoveries and 3 fatalities reported in total, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 507. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,824 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the highest number of cases – 712 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 545 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 305 were diagnosed in Imereti; 63 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 56 in Shida Kartli; 48 in Kvemo Kartli; 24 in Guria; 23 in Kakheti; 22 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 22 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; and 4 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti.

482 patients are in severe condition, and 105 are on assisted ventilation. Out of the 23 COVID-related fatalities reported, 9 deaths were confirmed in Tbilisi; 8 in Adjara; 2 in Imereti; 2 in Shida Kartli, and 2 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,824 Daily Cases, 1,262 Recoveries, Record 23 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,824 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 32,127. In the meantime, 1,262 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 12,632. 23 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 238. The number of active cases to date stands at 19,231.

Monday, October 26

18:00 GMT+4 – 100 New Cases, 2 More Recoveries, 1 More Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 100 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,839. In the meantime, 2 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,464. Another COVID-19-infected patient died in the region – 36th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 2,339.

17:50 GMT+4 – CEC Update: Deadline for Requesting Mobile Ballot Box Extended to October 27

According to the Central Election Commission (CEC) press speaker Ana Mikeladze, the deadline for requesting mobile ballot box service for self-isolated voters has been extended to October 27, 14:00.

The previous deadline expires today at 22:00.

15:30 GMT+4 – First Health Worker Dies from COVID-19

From the 14 COVID-related fatalities reported by the Georgian authorities today, one was an emergency doctor from Akhalkalaki (town in southern Samtskhe-Javakheti region) receiving care at the Jerarsi clinic in Tbilisi.

The 69-year-old female doctor is the first health worker to die from COVID-19 in Georgia. According to Davit Kazaishvili, medical director of the Jerarsi clinic, the deceased was already suffering from diabetes mellitus and heart failure upon entering the clinic.

12:30 GMT+4 – CEC: Final Day to Request Mobile Ballot Box Service

The Central Election Commission (CEC) issued an announcement reminding voters in self-isolation to request voting via mobile ballot box service by calling the CEC call center. The deadline for requesting a mobile ballot box expires today, at 22:00.

According to CEC, its database includes about 9,000 eligible voters who will be in self-isolation on election day. As of now 1,500 voters have applied to the CEC call center with a request for a mobile ballot box.

CEC underscored that the mobile ballot box service can only be requested by those self-isolated voters who are already registered in the CEC database, which was last updated on October 25.

11:30 GMT+4 – Private Insurance Family Doctors to Aid in Coronavirus Management Process

Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze announced that starting today, private insurance family doctors will aid in the coronavirus management process.

11:20 GMT+4 – 78 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 78 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 559. With 113 recoveries and 3 fatalities reported in total, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 443. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,872 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the highest number of cases – 913 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Imereti region came in second with 337 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 296 were diagnosed in Adjara; 90 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 89 in Kvemo Kartli;  13 in Kakheti; 32 in Guria; 54 in Shida Kartli; 11 in Samtskhe-Javakheti;  30 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; and 7 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti.

401 patients are in severe condition, and 117 are on assisted ventilation. Out of the 14 COVID-related fatalities reported, 8 deaths were confirmed in Tbilisi; 4 in the Imereti region, and 2 in the Adjara region.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,872 Daily Cases, 603 Recoveries, 14 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,872 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 30,303. In the meantime, 603 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 11,370. 14 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 215. The number of active cases to date stands at 18,692.

Sunday, October 25

18:00 GMT+4 – 172 New Cases, 107 More Recoveries, 2 More Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 172 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,739. In the meantime, 107 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,462. Two COVID-19-infected patients died in Gudauta Hospital – 35 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 2,242.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,928 new COVID-19 infections diagnosed over the last 24 hours, the highest number of cases – 788 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 551 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 245 were diagnosed in Imereti; 93 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 87 in Kvemo Kartli; 42 in Kakheti; 35 in Guria; 33 in Shida Kartli; 27 in Samtskhe-Javakheti;  20 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; and 7 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,928 Daily Cases, 604 Recoveries, 8 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,928 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 28,431. In the meantime, 604 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 10,767. 8 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 201. The number of active cases to date stands at 17,437.

Saturday, October 24

18:00 GMT+4 – 117 New Cases, 17 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 117 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,567. In the meantime, 17 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,355. With 33 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 2,179.

13:30 GMT+4 – 114 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 114 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 481. With 113 recoveries and 3 fatalities reported in total, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 365.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,941 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 1,034 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 320 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 258 were diagnosed in Imereti; 49 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 68 in Shida Kartli; 107 in Kvemo Kartli; 12 in Guria; 18 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 36 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, 37 in Kakheti,  and 2 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,941 Daily Cases, 412 Recoveries, 10 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,941 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 26,503. In the meantime, 412 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 10,163. 10 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 193. The number of active cases to date stands at 16,121.

Friday, October 23

18:00 GMT+4 – 144 New Cases, 5 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 144 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,450. In the meantime, 5 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,294. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 2,123, with 33 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic.

15:00 GMT+4 – CSOs: Gov’t Failed to Explain Necessity for the State of Emergency

A report released on October 23 said that the Government of Georgia failed to explain why the nationwide state of emergency announced on March 21 to halt the spread of COVID-19 was “necessary and without alternative”. The report on the state of democracy and human rights under pandemic in Georgia was prepared by three Georgian CSOs – Georgian Democracy Initiative (GDI), International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy (ISFED), and Human Rights Center (HRC).

The watchdogs said that, under the Constitution of Georgia, the announcement of a state of emergency must meet certain requirements, among them, it needs to be necessary and without alternative. Also, according to the report, the reasons for the emergency as named in the government’s report show that tightening the restrictions, instead of declaring the state of emergency, would have been enough.

The CSO’s said that there were even fewer preconditions to extend the state of emergency on April 21, considering that the epidemiological situation was more manageable by that time.

13:30 GMT+4 – 5 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 5 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 367. With 116 recoveries and 3 fatalities reported in total, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 248. 

12:15 GMT+4 – About 150,000 Antigen-based Fast Coronavirus Tests Available

Deputy Head of the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) Paata Imnadze announced that starting today Georgian clinics will begin using antigen-based fast coronavirus tests; fast test results will be available in 20 minutes.

According to Imnadze, just under 150,000 said tests are available as of now; however, an additional 500,000 tests have already been ordered.

12:00 GMT+4 – 3rd Patient Dies in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali region reported a third fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The deceased COVID-19-infected patient was a 45-year-old man with underlying illnesses. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 211. 

11:55 GMT+4 – Health Minister Says Georgia Started Purchasing Remdesivir

According to Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze, the WHO has informed the Georgian Government that it can begin using Remdesivir for research purposes. Tikaradze said that the Georgian authorities have already begun the purchasing procedure of the antiviral medication.

On October 22, the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Remdesivir for use in adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older and weighing at least 40 kilograms for treatment of hospitalized COVID-19 cases.

11:50 GMT+4 – 5 More Regional Clinics to Receive Fever Patients

According to Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze, starting today, 5 more regional clinics in Sagarejo, Tetritskaro, Kutaisi, Akhaltsikhe, and Lanchkhuti will begin receiving fever patients.

11:20 GMT+4 – Gov’t Says Wearing Masks Outdoors ‘Strictly Recommended’ in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi

Head of the Government Administration Natia Mezvrishvili announced that wearing masks outdoors in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi is “strictly recommended,” underscoring that the police and labor inspection will monitor how the citizens take the recommendation into account.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,759 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 686 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 487 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 356 were diagnosed in Imereti; 69 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 35 in Shida Kartli; 36 in Kvemo Kartli; 17 in Guria; 30 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 12 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 24 in Kakheti, and 7 in Racha-Lechkhumi-Kvemo Svaneti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,759 Daily Cases, 350 Recoveries, 5 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,759 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 24,562. In the meantime, 350 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 9,751. 5 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 183. The number of active cases to date stands at 14,602.

Thursday, October 22

18:30 GMT+4 – 134 New Cases, 11 Recoveries, 1 More Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 134 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,306. In the meantime, 11 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,289. Another COVID-19-infected patient died in Gudauta Hospital – the 33rd recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,984.

15:30 GMT+4 – Watchdog Remarks on CEC Special COVID-19 Voting Procedures 

Transparency International (TI) Georgia, a local watchdog, issued remarks in response to the Central Election Commission’s (CEC) Resolution on special voting procedures for hospitalized COVID-19 patients, as well as for quarantined and self-isolated voters in the October 31 parliamentary elections.

The TI Georgia announcement expressed concern over CEC limiting inclusion in the mobile ballot box list to only those self-isolated persons and patients receiving treatment at home who manage to address CEC with a request from October 24 to 26, claiming that the time period outlined by the CEC excludes persons going into self-isolation after October 26. The watchdog urged CEC to “automatically include” these persons on the mobile ballot box list.

Slamming CEC for going back on its “initial decision to set up special election precincts in stationary medical institutions or quarantine zones with more than 50 voters”, TI Georgia urged CEC to set up said precincts “with more than 30 voters.”

The CEC Resolution reads that “a mobile ballot box can be accompanied by only one local and international observer, one representative of an electoral subject, and one press or mass media representative”. TI Georgia remarked that is unclear if observers will have the opportunity to accompany all mobile ballot boxes in a precinct, and called on CEC to better define this part of the Resolution, as well as to “increase these quotas to at least two.”

TI Georgia also underscored that “it is unclear if there will be a single mobile box or several for persons who are in stationary medical institutions, quarantine zones, self-isolation, and those getting treatment at home.” The watchdog recommended separating the mobile ballot boxes so that election observation can be conducted in a “more thorough and complete manner” with observers not having to come in contact with COVID-19 patients.

12:20 GMT+4 – 25 New Cases, 14 Recoveries Reported in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 25 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 330. With 116 recoveries, and 2 fatalities reported in total, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 212. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,595 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 563 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 389 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 335 were diagnosed in Imereti; 42 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 69 in Shida Kartli; 77 in Kvemo Kartli; 53 in Guria; 24 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 26 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 17 in Kakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,595 Daily Cases, 398 Recoveries, 6 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,595 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 22,803. In the meantime, 398 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 9,401. 6 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 178. The number of active cases to date stands at 13,198.

Wednesday, October 21

20:30 GMT+4 – Occupied Tskhinvali Asks Russia for a Field Hospital

On October 21, Moscow-backed Tskhinvali/South Ossetia defense ministry has asked the Russian Ministry of Defense to deploy a 150-bed field hospital in the region experiencing a surge in infected cases, RES news agency reported.

In a letter addressed to the Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu, Kremlin-backed S. Ossetian defense minister Ibragim Gasseev made a request for an urgent medical assistance with a temporary 150-bed field hospital, including medical personnel, special equipment, necessary medicines and laboratory for PCR testing.

19:30 GMT+4 – 136 New Cases, 11 Recoveries, 1 More Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 136 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,172. In the meantime, 11 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,278. Another COVID-19-infected patient died in Gudauta Hospital – the 32nd recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,862.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,351 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 445 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 369 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 295 were diagnosed in Imereti; 66 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 23 in Shida Kartli; 76 in Kvemo Kartli; 15 in Guria; 18 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 23 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 20 in Kakheti, and 1 in Racha-Lechkhumi.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,351 Daily Cases, 337 Recoveries, 14 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,351 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 21,208. In the meantime, 337 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 9,003. 14 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 172. The number of active cases to date stands at 12,007.

Tuesday, October 20

19:45 GMT+4 – 2nd Patient Dies in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Tskhinvali region reported second fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The deceased COVID-19-infected patient was a 84-year-old man with underlying illnesses. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 201. 

19:30 GMT+4 – 133 New Cases, 33 Recoveries, 3 More Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 133 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 3,036. In the meantime, 33 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,267. Three COVID-19-infected patients died in Gudauta Hospital – the 31st recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,738.

19:00 GMT+4 – Regular Flights Available in November

The Georgian Civil Aviation Agency issued a list of renewed regular flights from Tbilisi and Kutaisi.

Starting November, flights from Tbilisi and back will be available to Doha, Munich, Athens, Riga, Paris, Warsaw, Amsterdam, Vienna, Milan, and Berlin.

Flights from Kutaisi and back will be available to Vilnius, Riga, Dortmund, and Katowice.

12:20 GMT+4 – 9 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 9 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 305. With 102 reported recoveries and 1 fatality, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 202. 

11:35 GMT+4 – Mandatory Quarantine Policy Changed for Georgian Citizens

The Interagency Coordination Council announced changes to Georgia’s mandatory quarantine policy which will come into effect starting October 21. Georgian citizens returning to the country will no longer have to undergo mandatory quarantine, and will self-isolate for 8 days instead, if they present a negative PCR test result upon arrival to Georgia. Georgians who cannot present PCR test results must still undergo mandatory quarantine.

11:30 GMT+4 – Gov’t Mulls Resuming Several Regular Flights from November

According to Economy Minister Natia Turnava, a new government decision has been issued, determining the schedule for the gradual resumption of regular flights in November.

According to Turnava, the Georgian government, working with airlines, plans to increase the frequency of existing flights to and from Paris, Munich, and Riga. The resumption of regular flights to “for example, Amsterdam, Vienna, Warsaw, Athens, Vilnius, Dortmund, Katowice, Milan” will also be possible for airlines in November, the Economy Minister said.

As of now, further details on the resumption of regular flights are unavailable.

11:20 GMT+4 – Schools with Polling Stations to Use Distance Learning

Education Minister Mikheil Chkhenkeli announced that schools where polling stations are located will switch to distance learning on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (October 28-30) of election week. According to Chkhenkeli, the three days will be used to prepare the polling stations for election day.

11:20 GMT+4 – New Regulations Announced for Mtskheta Municipality Restaurants

According to an Interagency Coordination Council decision, restaurants and entertainment facilities in the Municipality of Mtskheta, located north to the capital city of Tbilisi, will be banned from operating after 22:00. The measure is already in place in Tbilisi, and in the western Adjara and Imereti regions. Explaining the measure, the authorities said Tbilisites have started to flock to Mtskheta restaurants after the restrictions came into effect for Tbilisi’s restaurant industry.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to the Georgian authorities, out of the 1,194 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 425 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Imereti region came in second with 372 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 193 were diagnosed in Adjara; 27 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 64 in Shida Kartli; 53 in Kvemo Kartli; 21 in Guria; 9 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 18 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 9 in Racha-Lechkhumi, and 3 in Kakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,194 Daily Cases, 328 Recoveries, 15 Fatalities

Georgia has reported record 1,194 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 19,857. In the meantime, 328 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 8,666. 15 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 158. The number of active cases to date stands at 11,033.

Monday, October 19

18:00 GMT+4 – 107 New Cases, 10 Recoveries, 1 More Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 107 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2,903. In the meantime, 10 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,197. Another COVID-19-infected patient died in Gudauta Hospital – the 28th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,678.

17:00 GMT+4 – Police Begins Monitoring of Agrarian, Open-Air Markets 

According to a recent Interior Ministry announcement, the Patrol Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, as well as regional police units have begun monitoring “agrarian and open-air market venues in the capital [Tbilisi] and all major cities of the country”, to ensure the enforcement of COVID-19 prevention rules and recommendations.

13:20 GMT+4 – PM Gakharia Says Elections Will Take Place within Constitutional Timeframe

During a government administration meeting, Georgia’s Prime Minister (PM) Giorgi Gakharia reaffirmed that the upcoming parliamentary elections will take place within the constitutional timeframe. The PM also underscored that the pre-election political process will be unaffected by the pandemic.

After vowing to prepare polling stations in strict accordance with epidemiological recommendations, Gakharia stressed that “[we] must conduct these elections in a dignified, democratic, open, transparent and, most importantly, safe manner.”

13:00 GMT+4 – Russian Mobile Hospital Arrived in Abkhazia

On late October 18, servicemen of a mobile multidisciplinary hospital of the Southern Military District (SMD) have completed their march from the city of Budyonnovsk (Stavropol Krai) to the occupied Abkhazia, Russian Defense Ministry reported.

Russia is deploying the mobile multidisciplinary hospital in Abkhazia at the request of the occupied region challenging dramatic surge in infection cases.

12:00 GMT+4 – CEC Unveils Voting Procedures for COVID-19-Infected, Self-Isolated Voters

Central Election Commission of Georgia (CEC), working in collaboration with the special working group consisting of representatives of the Election Administration, political parties, civil society, and international organizations has unveiled special procedures to ensure election participation for hospitalized COVID-19 patients, as well as for quarantined and self-isolated voters in the October 31 parliamentary elections.

The CEC will establish at least one polling station within the boundaries of district election commissions in municipalities and compose special groups that will transfer ballot boxes to hospitalized and quarantined voters. Self-isolated voters officially registered in relevant databases will be able to apply to the Election Administration and request to be provided with ballot box service.

Each member of the special group and every participant of the election process will be equipped with disposable coats, masks, gloves, protective shields, and sanitary and hygienic tools, fully complying with epidemiologic recommendations.

Special polling stations will not be in touch with other normal polling stations, and the votes are to be counted at special polling stations to ensure transparency of the process. In addition, election observers, media workers, and representatives of the election subjects will be allowed to follow the ballot box and monitor the voting process as well as vote counting.

11:30 GMT+4 – Higher Education Reopens Nationwide

Higher education institutions have reopened nationwide, as announced by Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia. The Interagency Coordination Council recommended that higher education institutions make use of distance learning when possible, while conducting practical exercises and laboratory work on campus in accordance with epidemiological recommendations.

11:30 GMT+4 – Public Transport Reopens in Adjara

As announced by Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia on October 15, public transportation in the western Adjara region, including intercity transport, has reopened for use after its operation was banned on September 25 due to a fast rise in COVID-19 cases in the region.

11:20 GMT+4 – 12 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 12 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 296. With 102 reported recoveries, and 1 fatality the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 193. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 1,186 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 469 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region, came in second with 360 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 99 were diagnosed in Imereti; 73 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 15 in Shida Kartli; 78 in Kvemo Kartli; 25 in Guria; 7 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 14 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 46 in Kakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,186 Daily Cases, 278 Recoveries, 7 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,186 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 18,663. In the meantime, 278 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 8,338. 7 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 143. The number of active cases to date stands at 10,325.

Sunday, October 18

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 1,192 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 471 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region, came in second with 343 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 211 were diagnosed in Imereti; 45 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 37 in Shida Kartli; 39 in Kvemo Kartli; 18 in Guria; 14 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 13 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 11 in Kakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 1,192 Daily Cases, 233 Recoveries, 8 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 1,192 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 17,477. In the meantime, 233 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 8,060. 8 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 136. The number of active cases to date stands at 9,255.

Saturday, October 17

17:00 GMT+4 – 124 New Cases, 12 Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 93 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2,796. In the meantime, 12 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,187. With 27 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,582. 

14:00 GMT+4 – 57 New Cases, 7 Recoveries Reported in Tskhinvali, First Fatality Recorded

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 57 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 284. The first fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic has been recorded. The deceased COVID-19-infected patient was a 88-year-old woman with underlying illnesses. With 7 more recoveries, a total of 102 patients have recovered. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 181. 

13:00 GMT+4 – Russian Defense Ministry to Deploy 100-bed Field Hospital in Abkhazia

At the request of occupied Abkhazia, Russian Defense Ministry will deploy 100-bed field hospital with necessary medical equipment in the region aimed at increasing bed capacity and providing medical care to COVID-19 patients, the Russian Defense Ministry reported.

The mobile multidisciplinary hospital of Southern Military District has already departed from Russia, marching from the town of Budyonnovsk (Stravropol Krai) to Sokhumi. The medical unit consists of 112 servicemen and 30 units of special military equipment.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 958 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 397 – was confirmed in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region, came in second with 226 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 232 were diagnosed in Imereti; 14 in Shida Kartli; 20 in Kvemo Kartli; 15 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 6 in Guria; 27 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 13 in Kakheti, and 8 in Samtskhe-Javakheti.

Out of the 4 fatalities recorded today, according to Endeladze, 2 passed away in Tbilisi, and 2 in Batumi, Adjara.

11:00 GMT+4 – 958 Daily Cases, 214 Recoveries, 4 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 958 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 16,285. In the meantime, 214 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 7,827. 4 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 128. The number of active cases to date stands at 8,304.

Friday, October 16

18:00 GMT+4 – Sokhumi Opens Enguri Bridge Crossing Point for Pensioners

Moscow-backed Abkhaz authorities opened Enguri bridge crossing point (the only existing passage which links Russian-occupied Abkhazia region to Georgia proper) for Georgian citizens receiving pensions and social assistance.

The transportation of people from Abkhazia to Samegrelo region will be operated by the UNHCR on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Kremlin-backed Abkhazia closed Enguri bridge crossing point due to COVID-19 outbreak on March 14, 2020.

17:00 GMT+4 – 93 New Cases, 8 Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 93 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2,672. In the meantime, 8 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,175. With 27 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,470. 

11:20 GMT+4 – 30 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia reported 30 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 227. With a total of 95 recoveries reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 132. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases, Fatalities

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 887 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 342 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region, while Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, came in second with 277 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 198 were diagnosed in Imereti; 12 in Shida Kartli; 3 in Kvemo Kartli; 10 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 11 in Guria; 22 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 7 in Kakheti;  3 in Samtskhe-Javakheti, and 2 in Racha-Lechkhumi.

Out of the 11 fatalities recorded today, according to Endeladze, 5 passed away in Tbilisi, 3 in Batumi, 2 in Imereti, and 1 in Gori. The number of patients under critical condition stands at over 70.

11:00 GMT+4 – 887 Daily Cases, 246 Recoveries, 11 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 887 new daily cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 15,327. In the meantime, 246 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 7,613. 11 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 124. The number of active cases to date stands at 7,564.

Thursday, October 15

23:00 GMT+4 – 100 New Cases, 67 Recoveries, 4 Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 100 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2,579. In the meantime, 67 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,167. 4 more patients passed away with 27 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,385. 

19:50 GMT+4 – ‘Patrol-Inspectors’ to Monitor Tbilisi Metro Entrances, Exits, Interior Ministry Says

According to an announcement made by the Interior Ministry Patrol Police Department, all Tbilisi metro entrances and exits will be actively monitored by so called patrol-inspectors to ensure compliance with COVID-19 prevention guidelines and recommendations.

“The Ministry of Internal Affairs calls on citizens to wear facemasks, to keep their distance when possible and to obey the instructions of patrol police employees,” the announcement concluded.

14:00 GMT+4 – 1200 Inpatient Beds to Become Available in Tbilisi

Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze announced today that 4 additional clinics in Tbilisi will be used in the COVID-19 management process, making 1200 inpatient beds available in Georgia’s capital.

As of now, according to Tikaradze, there are under 4000 inpatient hospital beds, and under 3900 inpatient hotel beds available nationwide for COVID-19 patients.

13:35 GMT+4 – Higher Education Institutions to Reopen from October 19 Despite Rapid Rise in Cases, PM Gakharia Says

According to Prime Minister (PM) Giorgi Gakharia, higher education institutions will reopen on October 19 as planned previously despite the rapid rise in nationwide cases.

Gakharia stated that higher education institutions will be recommended to make use of distance learning when possible, however, students will be able to perform practical exercises and laboratory work on campus.

13:30 GMT+4 – Changes in International Flights, Quarantine Policy

Georgia’s Prime Minister (PM) Giorgi Gakharia announced that flight frequency to and from Paris and Munich will increase before the end of October, while direct flights from Tbilisi and Kutaisi airports to other destinations in Europe will be restored “step by step, but with caution” in November, without providing further details.

Changes in Georgia’s quarantine policy were also announced. According to Gakharia, Georgian citizens returning to the country will no longer have to undergo mandatory quarantine, and will self-isolate for 8 days instead, if they present PCR test results upon arrival. Georgians who fail to present PCR test results must still undergo mandatory quarantine.

13:25 GMT+4 – Public Transportation to Reopen in Adjara Starting October 19

Georgia’s Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia announced that public transportation, including intercity transport services, will once again become available in the western Adjara region from October 19 onwards.

The use of public transport in Adjara has been banned since September 25.

13:20 GMT+4 – PM Gakharia Announces New Restrictions in Tbilisi, Imereti

As COVID-19 cases rise nationwide, Georgia’s Prime Minister (PM) Giorgi Gakharia announced that the country will look to new restrictions to contain the spread of the virus. According to the PM, restaurants and entertainment facilities in Georgia’s capital Tbilisi (366 daily cases), and in the western Imereti region (104 daily cases) will be banned from operating past 22:00. The same measure is already in place in the western Adjara region.

11:20 GMT+4 – 24 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported 24 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 197. With a total of 95 recoveries reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 102. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 919 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 366 – was confirmed in Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 286 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 104 were diagnosed in Imereti; 21 in Shida Kartli; 44 in Kvemo Kartli; 11 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 13 in Guria; 57 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 13 in Kakheti;  3 in Samtskhe-Javakheti, and 1 in Racha-Lechkhumi.

11:00 GMT+4 – 919 New Cases, 208 Recoveries, 4 Fatalities

Georgia has reported a record 919 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 14,440. In the meantime, 208 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 7,367. 4 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 113. The number of active cases to date stands at 6,934.

Wednesday, October 14

19:30 GMT+4 – 49 New Cases, 13 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 49 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2,479. In the meantime, 13 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,100. With 23 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,356.

11:20 GMT+4 – 21 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported 21 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 173. With a total of 90 recoveries reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 83. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 680 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 297 – was confirmed in Tbilisi, while the western Adjara region came in second with 189 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 150 were diagnosed in Imereti; 12 in Shida Kartli; 11 in Kvemo Kartli; 9 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 6 in Guria; 3 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 2 in Kakheti, and 1 in Samtskhe-Javakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 680 New Cases, 292 More Recoveries, 7 Fatalities

Georgia has reported a record 680 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 13,521. In the meantime, 292 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 7,159. 7 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 109. The number of active cases to date stands at 6,227.

Tuesday, October 13

19:30 GMT+4 – 87 New Cases, 10 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 87 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2,430. In the meantime, 10 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 1,087. With 23 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1,320.

19:00 GMT+4 – Ankara Donated Medical Equipment, Medicines to Tbilisi, MFA Says

According to the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Ambassador of Georgia to Turkey Giorgi Janjgava and Deputy Minister of Health of Turkey Emine Alp Meşe signed an agreement on Donation in the Field of Healthcare.

The MFA stated that Ankara has supplied Tbilisi with “significant medical equipment and medicines”, including respirators, PCR diagnostic kits and personal protective equipment to support the Georgian population during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Underscoring that the humanitarian situation in Georgia’s occupied territories has worsened in the context of the pandemic, the MFA notes that “a large part of the humanitarian aid” will be used to address the needs of populations affected by the Russia-Georgia conflict. 

18:00 GMT+4 – Occupied Abkhazia Asks Russia for a Field Hospital

On October 12, Moscow-backed Abkhaz defense ministry has asked the Russian Ministry of Defense to deploy a 500-bed field hospital in the region experiencing a dramatic surge in infected cases, Apsnypress reported.

In a letter addressed to the Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu, Kremlin-backed Abkhaz defense minister Vladimir Anua asked for an urgent medical assistance with a temporary 500-bed field hospital, including medical personnel, specialized equipment and necessary medicines.

17:00 GMT+4 – 5 Mobile COVID-prevention Groups to be Established

Tengiz Tsertsvadze, Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, announced today that the Health Ministry has decided to establish 5 mobile COVID-prevention groups comprised of one reanimation personnel, one infectionist, and one representative of the Health Ministry. Out of the 5 mobile groups, one expanded group with the addition of 3 junior doctors will be deployed in the Adjara region, one in the Imerti region, while 3 will remain in Tbilisi .

According to Tsertsvadze, other than providing medical assistance and recommendations, the mobile groups will also monitor and audit hospitals to help the Health Ministry’s efforts in fighting COVID-19.

16:00 GMT+4 – Abkhazia Introduces Additional COVID-19 Measures

On October 13, Moscow-backed Abkhaz authorities have introduced additional COVID-19 measures in the region experiencing a surge in infected cases.

From October 15 to November 24, Abkhazia prohibits holding mass sports and cultural events. Moreover, theaters, museums, libraries, preschool educational institutions and recreational facilities will be temporarily shut down.

The workers who are above 60 or have preschool (1-4 years old) age children will be exempt from the work responsibilities in the public sector, while acting in the same way is recommended to the private companies similarly.

15:00 GMT+4 – UNICEF Delivers Medical Aid to Abkhazia

On October 13, the United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Sokhumi office delivered medical aid to occupied Abkhazia’s ministry of enlightenment and language policy, Apsnypress reported.

According to the report, the humanitarian cargo, including disinfectants, non-contact thermometers and dispensers, will be delivered to all the educational institutes of Abkhazia.

Head of UNICEF Sokhumi office William Hanlon noted that providing schools with necessary hygiene products is directed to ensure safety of educational process amid pandemic.

12:00 GMT+4 – 10 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported 10 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 152. With a total of 90 recoveries reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 62. 

11:20 GMT+4 – COVID-19 Death Toll Passes 100

Georgia reported 9 more COVID-related fatalities today, taking the total number of fatalities to 102 since the onset of the virus. 5 out of the 9 COVID-related fatalities were located in the western Adjara region.

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, all 9 deceased patients were on assisted ventilation under critical condition.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 569 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 207 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region, followed by Tbilisi with 168 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 117 were diagnosed in Imereti; 25 in Shida Kartli; 7 in Kvemo Kartli; 24 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 8 in Guria; 5 in Kakheti; 5 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and 3 in Samtskhe-Javakheti.

11:00 GMT+4 – 569 New Cases, 329 More Recoveries, 9 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 569 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 12,841. In the meantime, 329 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 6,867. 9 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 102. The number of active cases to date stands at 5,846.

Monday, October 12

19:00 GMT+4 – 86 New Cases, 25 More Recoveries, 2 More Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 86 new cases of COVID-19 for October 11-12, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2343. In the meantime, 25 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 854. With 23 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1467.

17:00 GMT+4 – Around 100,000 Persons Have Lost Income Due to Pandemic

During the introduction of the 2021 state budget to the European Georgia fraction in the Parliament, the Deputy Minister of Finance Giorgi Kakauridze stated that according to the data utilized for governmental financial assistance amid COVID-19 crisis, there are around 100,000 persons that have lost their income. The Deputy Minister noted that the number has been derived from the information provided by companies. “More precise statistics will be available in the end of the year,” said Kakauridze.

14:40 GMT+4 – 2 More Fatalities Reported, 93 in Total

Two more COVID-19-related deaths were reported in Georgia, taking the number of daily fatalities to 8, and the number of fatalities since the onset of the virus to 93, according to recently released data on Stopcov.ge.

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 478 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 196 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region, followed by Tbilisi with 178 new cases.

As for the remaining new cases, 65 were diagnosed in Imereti;15 in Kvemo Kartli; 13 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 6 in Shida Kartli; 4 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; and 1 in Guria.

According to the doctor, out of 50 patients currently on assisted ventilation, 8 have been transferred from occupied Abkhazia and 1 more from the occupied Tskhinvali region for medical treatment.

11:00 GMT+4 – 478 New Cases, 211 More Recoveries, 6 More Fatalities

Georgia has reported 478 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 12,272. In the meantime, 211 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 6,538. 6 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 91. The number of active cases to date stands at 5,734.

10:00 GMT+4 – ‘International Companies’ to Receive Tax Benefits

The Georgian Government announced on October 9 that it will allow companies to obtain “international” status, providing them with the opportunity to receive a number of tax benefits and creating a “comfortable platform” for their operation.

The benefits for international companies will include taxing income from employment at 5%, a profit tax of 5%, and an exemption from property tax (with the exception of land tax).

According to the Georgian authorities, the property tax exemption will only be available for property that is used “for the purpose of carrying out activities permitted by ordinance of the Government of Georgia or is intended for the purpose of carrying out such activities.”

In addition, the Georgian Government announced that dividends issued by international companies will not be taxable at source and will not be included in the gross income of the dividend recipient.

According to the Georgian authorities, the benefits will firstly come into effect for maritime and IT companies.

The Georgian Government expressed hope that the benefits will stimulate local companies to develop and expand, while also spurring interest among major international companies to operate in Georgia.

Sunday, October 11

11:00 GMT+4 – 523 New Cases, 208 More Recoveries, 7 More Fatalities

Georgia has reported 523 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 11,794. In the meantime, 208 more patients have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 6,327. 7 more COVID-related fatalities were recorded, taking the overall number of Georgia’s (excluding occupied territories) COVID-related deaths to 85.

Saturday, October 10

19:00 GMT+4 – 87 New Cases, 15 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 87 new cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2257. In the meantime, 15 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 829. With 21 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1407.

12:00 GMT+4 – 10 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported 10 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 129. With a total of 90 recoveries reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 39. 

11:05 – Regional Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of 519 new cases, 222 were revealed in the Adjara region, 137 were recorded in the capital city of Tbilisi, 99 in western Imereti region, 31 in southern Kvemo Kartli, 10 cases were recorded in western Guria region and east-central Mtskheta-Mtianeti region each, 7 cases were recorded in central Shida Kartli region, 5 cases were confirmed in western Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, three cases were revealed in Kakheti, and one case was recorded in southern Samtskhe-Javakheti region. Four cases were imported, Endeladze added.

11:00 GMT+4 – 519 New Cases, 253 More Recoveries, 6 More Deaths

Georgia has reported 519 new cases of COVID-19, increasing the tally of total confirmed cases to 11,271. In the meantime, 253 more patiens have recovered, bringing the number of recoveries to 6,119.

Six more fatalities were recorded, bringing Georgia’s tally of COVID-related deaths to 78. According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, four of them have died in the western Adjara region, the hotspot of the country’s COVID outbreak. The four women – 65, 76, 80 and 90 – had severe underlying conditions, Endeladze said.

The number of active cases to date stands at 5,048.

Friday, October 9

19:00 GMT+4 – 99 New Cases, 3 More Recoveries, 2 Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 99 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2170. In the meantime, 3 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 814. Two COVID-19-infected patients died in Gudauta Hospital – 21 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1335.

12:00 GMT+4 – 8 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported 8 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 119. With a total of 90 recoveries reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 29. 

11:20 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 527 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 190 – was again confirmed in the western Adjara region, while daily infection cases continue to spike in Tbilisi, reaching 179.

As for the remaining new cases, 91 were located in Imereti; 28 in Kvemo Kartli; 11 in Kakheti; 10 in Shida Kartli; 3 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 3 in Guria, and 1 in Samtskhe-Javakheti;

All 6 deceased patients, with the age ranging from 55 to 81 years, were suffering from severe underlying diseases, Endeladze said.

According to the doctor, Georgia is now treating 63 critically ill patients, including 9 patients on assisted ventilation who have been transferred from occupied Abkhazia, and 1 more person transferred from the occupied Tskhinvali region for medical treatment.

11:00 GMT+4 – 527 New Cases, 313 Recoveries, 6 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 527 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 10,752. In the meantime, 313 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 5,866. Record daily 6 fatalities were recorded, with the number of COVID-related deaths standing at 72. The number of active cases according to NCDC Georgia to date stands at 4,788.

Thursday, October 8

19:00 GMT+4 – 95 New Cases, 13 More Recoveries, 3 Fatalities in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 95 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 2071. In the meantime, 13 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 811. Three COVID-19-infected patients died in Gudauta Hospital – 19 recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1241.

12:00 GMT+4 – 12 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported 12 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 123. With a total of 90 recoveries recorded, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 33. 

11:30 GMT+4 – Separate Group of Reanimation Personnel to be Established, PM Says

As COVID-related fatalities increase nationwide, Georgian Prime Minister (PM) Giorgi Gakharia spoke about the decision to establish a separate group of reanimation medical personnel, which will lead the management of severe and critical patients throughout the country.

According to PM Gakharia, the management process will be carried out in full coordination with the clinical group headed by Tengiz Tsertsvadze, Director of Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases.

11:20 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 472 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 230 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region. COVID-19 cases have also spiked in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, with 134 new daily cases reported.

As for the remaining new cases, 68 were located in Imereti; 8 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 8 in Kvemo Kartli; 8 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 5 in Guria; 6 in Shida Kartli; 5 in Kakheti, and 5 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti.

All three deceased patients were receiving care in the western Adjara region, according to Endeladze.

11:00 GMT+4 – 472 New Cases, 318 Recoveries, 3 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 472 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 10,225. In the meantime, 318 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 5,553. 3 more fatalities were recorded, with the number of COVID-related deaths standing at 66. The number of active cases according to NCDC Georgia to date stands at 4,580.

Wednesday, October 7

19:00 GMT+4 – 108 New Cases, 13 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 108 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1976. In the meantime, 13 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 668. With 16 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1292.

14:30 GMT+4 – 63rd Fatality Reported, 5th Today, Had Underlying Conditions

A 63rd COVID-19-related death was reported in Georgia, the fifth today, according to recently released data on Stopcov.ge. The deceased was an Interior Ministry employee working for the Adjara Police Department as a Detective’s assistant – investigator.

According to the Interior Ministry, the 51-year-old deceased tested positive for COVID-19 on October 1 and was receiving care at the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital. He had a number of underlying conditions, including pulmonary pneumonia, ischemic heart disease, and diabetes mellitus.

13:30 GMT+4 – COVID-19 Medical Personnel to Receive Additional 50% of Salary

According to Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze, all medical personnel involved in the coronavirus management process will receive 50% of their salary as a supplement to their existing monthly wage.

Doctors, nurses, infectious disease specialists, junior doctors, reanimation personnel, and therapists involved in coronavirus management will be affected by the wage increase.

13:00 GMT+4 – Foreign Visitors Will Undergo Fast Antigen Testing, NCDC Heads Says

As announced by Head of the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) Amiran Gamkrelidze, foreign citizens visiting Georgia will undergo fast antigen testing following an 8-day mandatory quarantine period.

According to Gamkrelidze, visitors will be able to return to normal life if fast antigen testing shows a negative result. In cases with positive results, foreign visitors will have to undergo PCR testing.

12:00 GMT+4 – 5 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported five new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 111. With a total of 90 recoveries recorded, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 21. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 508 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 259 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region. COVID-19 cases have also spiked in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, with 111 new daily cases reported.

As for the remaining new cases, 91 were located in Imereti; 25 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 8 in Guria; 5 in Kvemo Kartli; 5 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 2 in Shida Kartli, and 2 in Kakheti.

According to Endeladze, 2 of the deceased patients, a 65-year-old woman and a 70-year-old man, were from Adjara. An 88-year-old female from Terjola, and an 83-year old female from Tbilisi also passed away from COVID-19-related health complications. The number of critical patients stands at 58.

11:00 GMT+4 – 508 New Cases, 348 Recoveries, 4 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 508 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 9,753. In the meantime, 348 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 5,235. 4 more fatalities were recorded, with the number of COVID-related deaths standing at 62. The number of active cases according to NCDC Georgia to date stands at 4,430.

Tuesday, October 6

19:00 GMT+4 – 103 New Cases, 15 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 103 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1868. In the meantime, 15 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 655. With 15 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1198.

12:00 GMT+4 – 2 New Cases Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 106. With a total of 90 recoveries recorded, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 16. 

11:15 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 549 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 348 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 99 new cases were confirmed in the capital of Tbilisi; 59 in Imereti; 19 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 10 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; 4 in Shida Kartli; 3 in Guria; 3 in Kakheti; 1 in Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti; 1 in Kvemo Kartli, and 1 in Samtskhe-Javakheti.

Also according to Endeladze, 55 patients are in critical condition, out of which 9 are patients that were transferred from Abkhazia to seek care.

11:00 GMT+4 – 549 New Cases, 268 Recoveries, 4 Fatalities

Georgia has reported 549 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 9,245. In the meantime, 268 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 4,887. Four more fatalities were recorded, with the number of COVID-related deaths standing at 58. The number of active cases according to NCDC Georgia to date stands at 4,274.

Monday, October 5

19:00 GMT+4 – 49 New Cases, 19 More Recoveries, 15th Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 49 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1765. In the meantime, 19 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 640. Two COVID-19-infected patients died in Gudauta Hospital – the 15th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1110.

13:45 GMT+4 – 54th Fatality Reported, 4th Today

A 54th COVID-19-related death was reported in Georgia, the fourth today, according to recently released data on Stopcov.ge.

13:30 GMT+4 – COVID-19 Contacts Must Undergo Self-isolation without Testing, NCDC Head Says.

As announced by Head of the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) Amiran Gamkrelidze, a resolution has been submitted to the Health Ministry, according to which close contacts with COVID-19-positive citizens, including family and work contacts, must be directly transferred to self-isolation without any testing.

If contacts show no symptoms, such as cough, fewer, or shortness of breath, for 12 days after self-isolation, they may return to normal life without further testing, according to Gamkrelidze.

13:00 GMT+4 – Abkhazia COVID-19 Measures Come into Force

On October 5, the new restrictive measures aimed at preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus in the occupied region of Abkhazia came into force.

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.

12:30 GMT+4 – 53rd Fatality Reported, 3rd Today

Georgian authorities have reported another COVID-19-related fatality; the third today. The total number of fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic stands at 53.

According to Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze, the 3rd deceased was receiving care in Kutaisi at the Bomondi Clinic.

11:20 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 578 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 416 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 72 cases were confirmed in the capital of Tbilisi; 44 in Imereti; 23 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 10 in Kvemo Kartli; 8 in Guria; 1 in Shida Kartli; 1 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; and 1 in Kakheti;  Also, according to Endeladze, out of 45 critically ill patients, 43 are on assisted ventilation, including 9 patients transferred from occupied Abkhazia.

11:00 GMT+4 – Georgia Reports 578 New Cases, 375 More Recoveries, 2 More Fatalities

Georgia has reported 578 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 8,696. In the meantime, 375 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 4,619. Two more fatalities were recorded, with the number of COVID-related deaths standing at 52. The number of active cases according to NCDC Georgia to date stands at 3,999.

Sunday, October 4

19:00 GMT+4 – 57 New Cases, 19 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 67 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1716. In the meantime, 19 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 621. With 13 recorded fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1079.

11:20 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 554 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 370 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 65 cases were confirmed in the capital of Tbilisi; 63 in Imereti; 28 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 11 in Kvemo Kartli; 6 in Guria; 6 in Shida Kartli; 4 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; and 1 in Kakheti;  Also, according to Endeladze, out of 43 critically ill patients, 41 are on assisted ventilation, including 9 patients transferred from occupied Abkhazia.

11:00 GMT+4 – Georgia Reports 554 New Cases, 252 More Recoveries, 2 More Fatalities

Georgia has reported 554 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 8,118. In the meantime, 252 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 4,244. Two more fatalities were recorded, with the number of COVID-related deaths standing at 50. The number of active cases according to NCDC Georgia to date stands at 3,798.

Saturday, October 3

19:00 GMT+4 – 69 New Cases, 12 More Recoveries, 13th Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 67 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1659. In the meantime, 12 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 602. Another COVID-19-infected patient died in Gudauta Hospital – the 13th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 1044.

12:00 GMT+4 – 2 New Case Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 104. With a total of 90 recoveries reported, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 14. 

11:00 GMT+4 – Georgia Reports 471 New Cases, 278 More Recoveries, 2 More Fatalities

Georgia has reported 471 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 7,564. In the meantime, 271 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 3,992. Two more fatalities were recorded, with the number of COVID-related deaths standing at 48. The number of active cases according to NCDC Georgia to date stands at 3,498.

Friday, October 2

19:00 GMT+4 – 65 New Cases, 32 More Recoveries in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 65 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1590. In the meantime, 32 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 590. With 12 fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 988.

13:00 GMT+4 – 2 More Recoveries in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported two more recoveries from COVID-19, while new cases of infection have not been confirmed. The number of confirmed cases in the region to date stands at 102.

12:00 GMT+4 – 3 More Deaths Reported

Georgian Authorities have reported 3 more COVID-19-related fatalities today, bringing the number of daily deaths to 5 and overall fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic to 46.

According to Health Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze, all 5 patients had underlying diseases and one of the deceased was a citizen of Georgia from occupied Ochamchire district, Abkhazia.

11:20 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 453 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 297 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 78 cases were confirmed in the capital of Tbilisi; 52 in Imereti; 6 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 6 in Guria; 6 in Shida Kartli; 3 in Kakheti; 2 in Kvemo Kartli; 2 in Mtskheta-Mtianeti; and 1 Samtskhe-Javakheti. Also, according to Endeladze, 9 patients transferred from occupied Abkhazia are on assisted ventilation.

11:00 GMT+4 – Record 453 Daily Cases, 295 Recoveries, 2 More Patients Died

Georgia has reported a record 453 daily new cases, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the country (excluding occupied territories) to 7093. In the meantime, 295 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 3,714. Two new fatalities were reported by the NCDC, with the number of total COVID-19-related deaths reaching 43. The number of active cases to date stands at 3,310.

Thursday, October 1

19:00 GMT+4 – 67 New Cases, 8 More Recoveries, 12th Fatality in Abkhazia

Moscow-backed authorities in Abkhazia have reported 67 cases of COVID-19, taking the tally of total confirmed cases in the region to 1525. In the meantime, 28 more persons have recovered, increasing the number of recoveries to 558. Another COVID-19-infected patient died in Gudauta Hospital – the 12th recorded fatality since the outbreak of the pandemic. The number of active cases in the region to date stands at 955.

15:40 GMT+1 – 41st Fatality Reported, 2nd Today

Georgian authorities have reported another COVID-19-related fatality; the second today. The total number of fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic stands at 41.

According to information provided by the Adjara Health Ministry, the deceased was an 82-year-old male who was receiving care at the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital. The patient was also suffering from acute heart failure.

11:30 GMT+4 – 40th Fatality Reported, Had Underlying Conditions

Georgian authorities have reported another COVID-19-related fatality; the first today. The total number of fatalities since the outbreak of the pandemic stands at 40.

The deceased was a 81-year-old man receiving care at the Batumi Republican Clinical Hospital. The patient was suffering from bilateral pneumonia, acute respiratory failure, and exacerbation of chronic kidney disease.

11:00 GMT+4 – Breakdown of New Cases

According to Marina Endeladze, Department Head at Tbilisi Hospital of Infectious Diseases, out of the 448 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, the highest number – 241 – was confirmed in the western Adjara region.

As for the remaining new cases, 62 cases were confirmed in the capital of Tbilisi; 15 in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti; 9 in Samtskhe-Javakheti; 7 in Guria and Shida Kartli, and 2 in Kakheti. Also according to Endeladze, the number of imported cases stands at 6.

10:30 GMT+4 – Record 448 Daily Cases, 299 Recoveries

Georgia has reported a record daily 448 new cases, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases in the country (excluding occupied territories) to 6,640. In the meantime, 299 more patients have recovered, taking the number of recoveries to 3,419. The number of active cases to date stands at 3,155.

10:00 GMT+4 – 2 New Case Revealed in Tskhinvali

Moscow-backed authorities in Georgia’s Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia have reported two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the tally of total confirmed cases to 102. With a total of 90 recoveries, the number of active cases in the region to date stands at 12. 

9:00 GMT+4 – Schools Reopen for Grades 1 to 6

In accordance with the Interagency Coordination Council announcement, schools  in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Rustavi and Zugdidi have reopened for students in grades 1 to 6. All students, regardless of their grade, can go back to school in Gori and Poti. Distance learning will continue to be an available option. 

• COVID-19 in Georgia Live Blog – September 2020 / Archived
• COVID-19 in Georgia Live Blog – July 2020 / Archived
• COVID-19 in Georgia Live Blog – June 2020 /Archived
• COVID-19 in Georgia Live Blog – May 2020 / Archived
• COVID-19 in Georgia Live Blog – April 2020 / Archived
• COVID-19 in Georgia Live Blog – March 2020 / Archived

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