Infectious Diseases Consultant Osama Abu Al-Ata Tuesday joined Roya's Donya ya Donya to discuss the worsening COVID-19 situation in Jordan. The following are summaries of his responses to popular questions. 

Is COVID-19 strain mutating further?

The virus’ genetic material has changed very little in terms of its amino acids, which is why the spread is increasing. However, it has not mutated in a drastic manner, otherwise a new virus strain would exist.

Will there be another total lockdown in Jordan?

The government and the Ministry of Health have clarified that there will be no total lockdown for the foreseeable future due to the state of the economy and resistance from citizens.

However, if the healthcare system collapses, the government will resort to a lockdown, which is a procedure seen being carried out in other countries.

There are alternatives to a total lockdown, such as partial lockdown, tightening curfew hours, reducing the number of gatherings, and banning overcrowding.

Is there a COVID-19 vaccine?

There are many companies competing in the race for a coronavirus vaccine. Tt is expected for Jordan to obtain the vaccine at the end of December from the United States, and according to the Ministry of Health, it may be in Jordan at the end of February 2021.