Cinemas, gyms, wedding venues to be closed in Qatar: GCO

Tribune News NetworkDohaCinemas, theatres, children’s play areas, gyms and wedding venues, including those in hotels, will be shut down in Qatar under further notice, the Government Communication Office said on Thursday.The directive will be in effect from Friday, GCO said, as part of the efforts to contain the transmission of the new coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in Qatar. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Health has called upon citizens and residents to avoid crowded places and postpone social gatherings for the time being.The ministry also urged elderly people and people with chronic health conditions to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, as they are more susceptible to coronavirus infection.“The ministry continues to take all necessary measures to limit the spread of the virus and calls upon all members of society to take care and apply simple, preventive measures to protect against infection,” a government statement issued in Thursday said.“These measures include washing your hands or using hand sanitizers often and keeping a distance of at least one metre (3 feet) from people who have symptoms of illness. You are also advised to use your sleeve to cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing or use tissue paper and dispose of it appropriately.”The coronavirus (COVID-19) contact centre at the Ministry of Public Health is accessible around the clock for any reports or inquiries regarding the virus at the toll-free phone number 16 000.