VIDEO: UAE reports 680 new coronavirus cases, 3 deaths

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The UAE Health Ministry confirms 680 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of cases in the UAE to 18,878.

The ministry conducted 26,763 new COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours.

The Ministry said 577 people recovered from the virus, bringing the total recovery cases in the country to 5,381 cases.

The ministry reported the death of 3 people of different nationalities who are infected with the virus, and as a result of complications related to infection with the virus, bringing the total deaths in the country to 201.

Dr Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, official spokesperson of the UAE Government, said that today's tally of infections included four families who did not adhere to precautionary measures and social distancing. These families gathered for Taraweeh prayers in violation of instructions issued by the Emirates Fatwa Council and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, as well as preventative measures issued by health authorities.

By doing so, they spread the virus to other family members who were placed under quarantine, she added.

She announced the death of three individuals of various nationalities, bringing the total number of deaths in the country to 201. Dr. Al Shamsi offered her sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to all patients.

The number of coronavirus patients currently receiving treatment totals 13,296 individuals of different nationalities, she added.

Dr. Farida Al Hosani, official spokesperson for the health sector, called upon the general public to adhere to preventative measures, warning that some families continued to hold gatherings and distribute food to neighbours, thereby causing the virus to spread.

''We understand that these habits were deeply embedded in UAE culture, but these practices, though done in good faith, could spread the virus to others. Under these exceptional circumstances, we should avoid such habits and instead donate to official bodies for the safety of all,'' she added.

Dr. Al Hosani noted that increasing infections worldwide pose a tremendous challenge, requiring everyone "to deal with others as if we are infected. We should adhere to preventative measures as if others were infected. This is possible at all times for the safety and wellbeing of all.''