As you are all aware, this year we shall celebrating Christmas amidst the double threats of terrorism and COVID-19. Although, we have now entered day 34, since the deadly attacks at CPS and Parliament Avenue, the threat of terrorism still exists. And that is why we are calling upon members of the public to stay alert while travelling, or shopping, in a gathering, partying or celebrating during this festive season.
We also want to remind the public to be vigilant against COVID-19 and approach the festive season, with an abundance of cautions. Last week on the 15.12.2021, the country registered 201 new cases of COVID-19. This shows a slight increase in transmission rates and if we do not follow the health SOPs, we may see a resurgence in COVID-19 infections, very soon.
It is quite unfortunate that as we enter the festive season, many people are moving while maskless in public, not observing physical distance and or washing hands with soap. The other danger is the perception of the public that the new Omicron variant is asymptomatic, mild and can not cause severe illness. In addition many vaccinated persons have a feeling that they are fully protected from any variant, and not observing other SOPs.
Although vaccines remain the best way to prevent severe disease and fatalities, it is still advisable to follow other preventive measures, even if you are fully vaccinated. Therefore, its important to keep gatherings small, avoid crowded or confined places, travelling long distances, ensure you are in well ventilated places, by opening windows and doors, keep your hands clean by washing and using hand sanitizers. This is simply because as people gather to party, celebrate, pray or travel to visit their loves one, the opportunities for further virus transmission are significant.
The public should know that the primary enforcement of the festive season is to ensure a peaceful celebration. Therefore, all Territorial commanders have been tasked to ensure the COVID-19 prevention guidelines and SOPs in their areas, as well as the curfew provisions are fully adhered to. We shall therefore, respond to all violations by ensuring all COVID-19 offenders and defaulters are handled according to the law.
Source: Uganda Police Force