Solak: No opening of cafes from May 2, social distancing and protective measures are the last to be lifted

SARAJEVO, (Patria) – Fahrudin Solak, head of the Federal Civil Protection Administration, said in his evening address that the situation with fires is under control. All fires that appeared since this morning have been localized or extinguished. Citizens again set fire to grass and the fire spread, but a quick intervention prevented greater damage.

He said that regarding the spread of the coronavirus, quarantine measures have proven to be very good and effective, and that there is no further threat of infection from people placed there.

"These measures currently in force will be applied until April 30. In the meantime, we will consider whether to introduce some measures or relax some of these. We will also follow world countries and the recommendations of the World Health Organization, but we must be very cautious. Life has not stopped here, but there is no room for relaxation; we must be cautious. Use protective equipment, be vigilant, and maintain social distance," Solak said.

Asked whether the opening of cafes and catering facilities can be expected from May 2, Solak said it is too early to talk about it.

"Epidemiologists and the entire Crisis Staff of the Federal Ministry of Health, which is an advisory body to the Staff, have never at any point considered such things as a possibility. Specifically, opening cafes and other activities from May 2 is unrealistic. If we relax too early, we will have the spread or import of the virus," Solak said.

One of the questions was whether the scenario of Italy or Spain could happen, to which Solak said it cannot because measures were introduced on time and they must continue to be followed.

Regarding the measures that will remain in force even after the lifting of the state of natural disaster or state of emergency, Solak said that the last measures to be withdrawn will be social distancing and protective measures in the form of masks and gloves.

Solak said that respirators from China should arrive next week once the procedure is completed.