In a statement, the ministry of Health called on all citizens to strictly respect and fully comply with the recommended preventive measures, as part of the strengthening of preventive measures against the novel coronavirus (Covid-19), following the extension of the containment period relating to the state of health emergency until 20 May and given the appearance of various epicentres in some industrial units, commercial spaces and family environments.

The ministry also urged the application of the barrier measures recommended by the public authorities, i.e. restriction of movement except in cases of absolute necessity, observance of a safe distance (at least one metre) in public places, especially when shopping and even in the family environment, and the compulsory wearing of protective masks for any movement outside the home for reasons authorized by the state of health emergency.

 The ministry also recommended using disposable tissues when sneezing or coughing and getting rid of them properly in a closed plastic bag to be disposed of in a covered garbage can, avoiding hand contact with the face, eyes and nose without washing hands, and washing hands frequently with soap and water, preferably for at least 40 seconds or with a hydro-alcoholic solution.

 It also recommended to clean purchased products, especially packaged products, before storing them and to frequently wash surfaces, door handles, switches and electrical outlets at home, using detergents and disinfectants such as 12-degree chlorine bleach, avoiding mixing it with other disinfectants. It is also advisable to ensure permanent ventilation of the house.

 For more information, the supervisory ministry has put a set of awareness-raising materials in audiovisual and electronic format on the official portal "www.covidmaroc.ma", as well as on the Sehati site "www.sehati.gov.ma" and their pages on social networks.

 It is worth to mention that the number of cases, as well as mortality from the disease, has been largely limited thanks to the early establishment of the state of health emergency and the commitment of the authorities and citizens to comply with preventive measures and containment guidelines, the statement concluded.