UAE reports 626 virus cases, tests more than 2.5m residents

‘Community awareness is the first line of defence for the UAE and its people in facing the dangers of the emerging coronavirus,’ said an official

The UAE Health Ministry conducted 52,000 new COVID-19 tests and revealed 626 coronavirus cases on Saturday. The ministry also reported the death of a person.

The total number of infected cases recorded in the country rose to 38,268.

The number of cured cases increased in the country to 21,061, after the recovery of 724 new cases.

The total number of deaths in the country jumped to 275 people.

The ministry said 16,932 are still receiving treatment in the country.

Dr Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, official spokesperson for the UAE Government said, “The UAE government continues to make efforts to protect all citizens and residents and preserve their health, and to adopt a series of decisions to alleviate the repercussions of this crisis on the various pivotal sectors.”

“The efforts of the UAE government are reflected in the number of examinations of the COVID-19 cases in the country, which is considered one of the highest in the world, as health authorities carried out more than 2.5 million examinations in various emirates of the country.

“We monitor some false news that is circulated on social media, and sections of instructions other than the specialists, and we call on everyone to refer to the official sources and news issued by the relevant government institutions to follow up on the developments of Covid-19 in the country,” Dr Amna added.

“The family plays a pivotal role in enhancing the awareness of their children about adopting healthy behaviour, which must become a culture that children practise in their daily behaviour and interactions.”

Dr. Saif Juma Al Dhaheri, Spokesman of the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) said, “Our awareness of health information and the basics of a healthy lifestyle is just as important as our commitment to healthy procedures and physical distance.

Dr Farida Al Hosani, the spokesperson for the state health sector said: “The gradual return to normal life and doing business will not bear fruit without community cooperation and awareness, and the adoption of a new lifestyle based on continuing the precautionary measures in public facilities, workplaces, and others.

“Restrictions on precautionary measures have been relaxed, but everyone remains responsible for themselves, and continuing to exercise caution and caution remains a key factor under the exceptional circumstances we live in.

“Those working in home nursing services are a priority for us, especially because they deal with dear groups like us, the elderly or those with determination,” Dr Farida added.

“It was circulated to all health centres by conducting a checkup as COVID-19 for nursing home workers, and to make sure that they do not have any symptoms before starting these home visits.”

Dr Farida continued, “The infection period for COVID-19 begins two days before symptoms appear on the patient, and extends up to a maximum of 8 days after symptoms appear, and the person is not contagious after this period.

“We are well aware that wearing medical masks can be uncomfortable for some, especially if they are worn for a long time, but it is one of the main and approved means to prevent infection, and has proven effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19 disease.”

“It has not been scientifically proven that there is any damage or side effects from wearing masks, or that they may lead to suffocation or lack of oxygen, etc.

“Medical masks have been worn for decades by health workers for long hours, and we have not yet seen any cases of asphyxia or any negative effects resulting from them.

“People with COVID-19 who suffer from respiratory symptoms should go to the hospital or the nearest medical centre, especially shortness of breath that requires immediate intervention and deal with it quickly.

“We advise the people most vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 such as the elderly or who suffer from chronic diseases, to go to the hospital in case they are suspected of having any symptoms or if they appear any symptoms even if they are simple, as their cases require early intervention to avoid any complications,” added Dr Farida.

“Community awareness is the first line of defence for the UAE and its people in facing the dangers of the emerging coronavirus, and overcoming this crisis that the world is going through today.”