Newly detected COVID-19 cases reached 291 on Saturday, smashing past the 221 new cases detected the previous day and marking a nine-month high. 

The last time Malta recorded as many daily cases was in mid-March. 

A total of 22 virus patients are currently receiving treatment in hospital, with three of those requiring intensive care. On Friday, there were 20 patients in hospital. 

Data released by the Health Ministry indicated that 100 patients recovered overnight and no deaths were reported over the past 24 hours. As a result, there are currently 1,791 active virus cases in the country. 

Vaccination efforts on Friday led to healthcare workers administering a total of 2,136 doses that day. In total, 1,007, 250 vaccine doses have been administered so far, with 167,322 of those being booster doses.

Baby Jesus processions

Meanwhile, the traditional baby Jesus processions can take place “without any barriers” so long as the restrictions in place for events are adhered to, Health Minister Chris Fearne has said. 

The minister was reacting to complaints on social media claiming the processions were being banned while other events were still allowed. 

“So long as the numbers are according to the rules, people wear masks and are vaccinated… there is no need for barricades, but the public should obey the rules and avoid too many people gathering,” Fearne said. 

Tarxien parish priest Chris Ellul complained on Facebook about the double standards the Church faced when trying to organise religious activities. While processions had to have barriers, other events did not, he claimed. 

The priest also published an e-mail from the Malta Tourism Authority saying that barriers would be needed for the event to be allowed. 

Fearne also dismissed claims that spontaneous Christmas performances were taking place in Valletta, saying they were not allowed.

He also urged those attending the religious processions to avoid crowding and to watch on from “windows or balconies” to protect others.