Tunisia declares 'victory' over coronavirus as cases dwindle

Tunisia announced it would soon reopen its borders as the number of new coronavirus cases dwindle.

2 min read

15 June, 2020

Tunisia has confirmed a total of 1,094 coronavirus infections [Getty]

Tunisian Prime Minister Elyes Fakhfakh said on Sunday that the country has won its battle against Covid-19, as the north African country prepares to reopen its borders.

"We made efforts and we were able to achieve a victory," Fakhfakh said in an interview broadcast on Tunisian private channel Attasia, according to Xinhua.

"Tunisia has contained the virus, but care must be taken in order to completely eradicate the disease," the premier added.

Fakhfakh said Tunisians should feel proud of their country's "impressive" results.

After gaining control over the outbreak, Tunisia is set to open its land, air and sea borders on June 27, the official said. Travelers coming in will have to adhere to mandatory quarantine in hotels.

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According to data released by the health ministry, Tunisia has recorded a total of 1,094 coronavirus infections, resulting in 49 deaths. While no vaccine or cure is available yet for the novel coronavirus infection, 995 people in the country have already made a recovery.

Read also: Lebanon says too early to claim victory over coronavirus

Tunisia's authorities imposed strict confinement measures after the first coronavirus case in the north African country was confirmed on March 2.

In May, restrictions were eased as new infections slowed, allowing retail stores, open-air markets and supermarkets to reopen. The lockdown was lifted altogether early last week following an order from Tunisian President Kais Saied.

After originating in Wuhan, China last December, the novel coronavirus has infected over 7.7 million people globally and killed nearly 430,000.

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