Infectious-disease experts are expressing concern about Pope Francis’ upcoming trip to Iraq, given a sharp rise in the country’s coronavirus infections there, its fragile healthcare system and the inevitability of Iraqis crowding to see him. But from an epidemiological standpoint, as well as the public health message it sends, a papal trip to Iraq amid a pandemic is not advisable, health experts say. Francis has said he intends to go even if most Iraqis have to watch him on television to avoid infection. To limit the chance of contagion, Francis for months has eschewed even socially distanced public audiences at the Vatican. Head said that, for any trip to Iraq, there must be infection-control practices in force, including mask-wearing, hand-washing, social distancing and good ventilation in indoor spaces.

Source: Los Angeles Times March 01, 2021 10:07 UTC