Assist. Prof. Dr. Ender Volkan Çınar: We are at a very serious turning point with relation to the epidemic

Cyprus International University, Faculty of Pharmacy Vice Dean and Molecular Microbiologist Assist. Prof. Dr. Ender Volkan Çınar, stated that the number of COVID-19 cases within the country has increased rapidly, and that this increase is an indication that we are currently at a very serious turning point with relation to the epidemic.

Çınar explained that with the potential of the spreading capacity of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, that is the reason for the COVID-19 disease, it was known that the number of COVID-19 cases could increase exponentially, with him further advising, “This situation causes sudden and uncontrollable increases in the number of cases, as we have seen with the disasters we have observed in various countries, causing their health systems to collapse”.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Çınar pointed out the importance of a lockdown and testing a lockdown, preferably in the situation where the number of cases is low, as that this approach is necessary in the control of the epidemic.

Emphasizing that at this point, among the measures that can be taken, it is important for the people to meticulously stay at their homes, Çınar advised, "Meanwhile, it is important to concentrate on random testing in an effort to find and treat clumps of cases."

In order to alleviate the burden of those tracking the contact of those who have tested positive, technology should be utilized.

Pointing out testing, tracking and isolation is an important process that should be given a great deal of importance, Assist. Prof. Dr. Çınar elaborated, "during this process, we can obtain the help of technology, in order to alleviate the burden of the contact tracking officers, applying assistance from digital contact tracking applications, suggested by some technology companies at the beginning of the epidemic."

Stating that for the long term, vaccinations are also a necessary measure in order to control the epidemic, Çınar continued as follows: By increasing consultations with the competent authorities, the effectiveness has transparently been displayed with scientific publications and it would be safer to be able to increase the vaccines brought to our country that have been corroborated by authorities such as the international FDA (Food and Drug Agency), and EMA (European Medicines Agency) and ensuring that the community is immunized by them.

Stating that individuals who have the COVID-19 vaccine should continue to be protect themselves as best as possible, Çınar stated that such a measure is important for both their own health and the safety of those around them.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Çınar explained that there is no scientific data obtained to verify whether an individual who has received the full dose of an effective vaccine and protects themselves, will still have the ability to pass the virus to other individuals.