Official: Most Covid-19 cases are minor

UAE has one of the highest recovery rates in the world, Dr Al Sharif says

Increased testing and early diagnosis have helped increase recoveries in the UAE, Dr Amer Al Sharif, head of the Covid-19 Command and Control Centre, said yesterday. Most cases are minor and do not exhibit symptoms, he added.

Dr Al Sharif, along with Dawood Al Hajeri, directorgeneral of Dubai Municipality, was addressing a remote press conference organised by the

Government of Dubai Media Office on how different sectors are getting ready for life after Covid-19.

The UAE’s integrated health care system has helped it achieve one of the highest recovery rates in the world, he added.

On medical protocols being followed in the treatment of Covid-19, Dr Al Sharif confirmed hydroxychloroquine and remdesivir are some of the drugs included in the guidelines issued to health care facilities.

4,000 workers in 10 teams

On his part, Al Hajeri said more than 4,000 workers in 10 specialised teams are working on the frontline of the fight against Covid-19.

Dubai Municipality has issued 45 circulars based on the directives of the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management and outlined 11 sets of protocols on precautionary measures in malls.

Public parks

Al Hajeri said lifting of restrictions in Dubai public parks will happen in three phases. The big parks will be reopened in the last phase.

Medical waste disposal

Al Hajeri said Covid-19 medical waste is treated at the Jebel Ali Hazardous Waste Treatment Facility. About 5-6 tonnes is collected from clinics, hospitals and other healthcare facilities and treated in three cycles in 24 hours, he said.