Algiers, Jul 12 (IANS): The Algerian government has decided to extend the ongoing lockdown for 21 days amid a spike in new coronavirus cases.

In a statement on Sunday, the Prime Minister Office said the lockdown extension will be implemented in 14 provinces, including the capital Algiers, reports Xinhua news agency.

Earlier in the day, Health Minister Abderrahman Benbouzid told the state-run television ENTV that the recent increase of infections is largely due to the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant.

Benbouzid said the Ministry is working to provide more resuscitation beds and oxygen for Covid-19 patients, adding hotels, ships, and field hospitals will be mobilized when necessary to cope with the recent rise in infection cases.

He also indicated that the vaccination against the virus will be carried out in homes, mosques, and schools to have more vaccinated.

The government also urged the citizens to wear face masks constantly and respect hygiene and social distancing rules to break the chain of infection.

The Health Ministry reported on Sunday 786 new Covid-19 cases, 12 fatalities and 519 recoveries, while admitting 39 patients to intensive care units.

Algeria has so far reported 138,465 confirmed cases of Covid-19, with 3,693 deaths.