Are Jordanians Adhering to Strict Guidelines During COVID-19 Pandemic?

posted on: Apr 8, 2020

By: Dalal Abdallat Abuzaineh/Arab America Contributing Writer

Jordan, considered a low-income country, has recorded 353 COVID-19 cases, including 138 recoveries and 6 deaths which equates to roughly 35 cases per million of the total population. Since the first COVID-19 case was announced in Jordan on March 2^nd, the Jordanian government has been working hand in hand and with full support from the Jordan Armed Forces and all defense and security institutions to implement emergency laws to control the spread of the pandemic across the country. Jordan has made swift decisions, with the guidance and approval of His Majesty King Abdullah II, related to equipping hospitals to treat patients, travel restrictions, quarantine guidelines, closure of businesses, offices, schools, and shelter in place rules.

Jordan quickly closed its international airport and had all Jordanian nationals arriving from abroad quarantine for the recommended 14 days, with many being temporarily housed and screened in hotels across Amman and the Dead Sea before being allowed to return home. On-site work for the government and private-sector employees was suspended except for vital sectors, schools, and universities were closed with a shift to online schooling and accreditation of distance learning.

As of March 14th, a conditional lockdown has been imposed with an enforced curfew across most of the country where the use of vehicles has been prohibited unless they have a permit to conduct essential business. Individuals can leave their homes only to shop for basic food needs and medicine during none curfew hours. Home delivery services have been available as well. A complete lockdown has been imposed in governorates that have been hardest-hit by the pandemic, such as Irbid in the North of Jordan. All public gatherings, such as religious services, weddings, and funerals, have been banned for the time being. Violators of these policies have faced penalties.

Officials of the Jordanian government, such as the Prime Minister, Minister of Health, Minister of Media Affairs and other leaders have provided daily updates on TV to inform the population on the latest statistics, modifications to guidelines and public health recommendations.

Jordan Times, April 6, 2020 — Jordanian Heroes

Through this difficult period, it has been particularly admirable the efficiency by which the country has managed the crisis and the supportive response from its citizens. There have been many stories and examples of people standing outside their homes singing and praising the Government for their efforts and sharing messages of gratitude on social media. People are also encouraging one another to stay home and to take advantage of the time with their family while maintaining their own safety and that of their fellow citizens.

It is also worth noting that many companies, banks, business people and individuals within and outside of Jordan have donated millions to support Jordan’s efforts to contain the crisis at all levels: medically, economically, and socially. In addition, many institutions, ministries, charities, and youth organizations have also participated in individual or partnership efforts to support economic and social viability. Charities and youth organizations have carried out initiatives for distribution of food parcels and sterilization kits to families in poor areas and many have waived rent for their rental properties, in support of families during this difficult time. Moreover, an initiative was established to protect families from domestic violence during the quarantine and to provide legal and psychological consultations while maintaining confidentiality. Last, but not least, a medical initiative was started for doctors across the Kingdom to provide medical consultations over the phone or via WhatsApp and the Social Security Corporation has disbursed funds to support the owners of small businesses.

Jordan still has a lot of work to do to control and minimize the impact of the pandemic, but they are working hard to prioritize efforts and to arrange rescue programs for its economy and impacted sectors. Above all, they have continued to emphasize the value of each individual, the importance of their safety, and appreciation for their solidarity during this time.

Yes,  Jordanians are exceptionally adhering to the government’s strict guidelines during COVID-19 pandemic, and in the words of the late King Hussein bin Talal, “our people are our most valuable assets.”

Dalal Adallat Abuzaineh, RN, received her degrees higher education in nursing from UCLA and Purdue universities.

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