The Canadian Muslim COVID-19 Task Force (CMCTF) has issued a new guidance for the Canadian Muslim community in the wake of the rapid spread of the Omicron variant in the country.
The Task Force called on Canadians to get vaccinated, wear a well-fitting mask for all indoor gatherings, get tested, if they have symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19, as well as avoiding all non-essential travel.
“This is a rapidly evolving situation. Be a community champion and help keep your community informed using reliable sources,” says the Task Force in a news release published on its website.
“Our communities have learned through previous waves, we have built up the knowledge, tools and resources to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe,” it added.
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The CMCTF was formed in March 2020 to ensure that Canadian Muslim communities have the information and resources they need to deal with the current global pandemic.
This national collaboration includes over 20 organizations and various experts.
New Restrictions
The statement comes as Canada announced Sunday it is reinstating its COVID-19 testing requirement for trips less than 72 hours starting Tuesday, just days before Christmas holiday travel.
It urged Canadians to minimize gatherings and contacts outside your close circle, maximize ventilation, get vaccinated, wear a mask for all indoor gatherings, get tested, avoid all non-essential travel, stay informed and finally make dua.
On November 24, 2021, a new variant of SARS-CoV-2, B.1.1.529, was reported to the World Health Organization (WHO). This new variant was first detected in specimens collected on November 11, 2021 in Botswana and on November 14, 2021 in South Africa.
On November 26, 2021, WHO named the B.1.1.529 Omicron and classified it as a Variant of Concern (VOC). On November 30, 2021, the United States designated Omicron as a Variant of Concern, and on December 1, 2021 the first confirmed U.S. case of Omicron was identified.