Dr. Muhammad AlAbdulaali, MOH spokesman, explains what is the R number? and how it was in Saudi Arabia:

We have received so many questions about R0

In this video we will explain what it is? and the science behind it

When will it be over?

A question that cross many people’s minds these days

The answer for this question is linked with a a rate called R0

This rate is a major concern for many epidemiological entities, centers and organizations.

Obviously, we are talking here about the pathogen that causes COVID-19 disease.

How do we understand this rate and how to interpret it?

An R of 10 means this virus would transmit from 1 person to 10 people and during its incubation period which usually between 1-2 weeks these 10 would see 100 people and infect them, who would in turn infect 1000

As each one of those would infect 10 and so on

Obviously, the lower the value of R0 the slower the spread of this virus.

Once it reaches 1 or less, the infection will spread only slowly, and it will eventually die out. Which is what all countries are aiming to achieve.

Let us imagine how scary and terrifying it will be if we become the reason for our loved ones to get sick and infected with this virus

How much was it globally?

This rate was estimated globally between 2.5 to 3.5 and sometimes higher than that!

There where governments took series of actions to lower those numbers

In some countries, this number rises to reach value of 8 which considered very crucial and scary level to have

What was the number in Saudi Arabia?

It was estimated to be around 4 at first, then got decreased to reach a value of 2-3 and with a number of actions which eventually helped the government to push the R number toward 1.

What helped us to achieve that?

Thanks god, with all the precautionary and proactive measures the Kingdom has successfully implemented inadance have led to such good levels

In addition to the community’s adherence and commitment which shows the awareness level of our society.

And if we continue showing our solidarity to all precautionary measures especially social distancing

As well as the other measures we always encourage people to follow will be our hope to sustain this level of control

If all these contributed, is it possible to return back to where we were?

It is still possible, but in our hands at the same time. If we prove how responsible we are in dealing with pandemic this success will continue

We are confident to get through this together and remember obstacles we face shall be dwarfed by our solidarity, and crises will crumble by the sheer strength of our collective will.

Thank you