Resident and expats in UAE can breathe a sigh of relief as the country is witnessing a marked drop in number of positive cases (‘UAE reports 305 new coronavirus cases, 343 recoveries, 1 death’, July 22, Gulf Today).

The early detection of coronavirus positive cases, supported by necessary medical assistance has surely helped the authorities minimise the spread of the pandemic. Increased testing is definitely a good initiative and a positive step forward, thereby reducing the risk of people contracting the virus.

But the disturbing factor is that some people are still ignoring basic COVID-19 protocols, such as social distancing, wearing facemasks, etc.  These measures are now a part of the ‘new normal’ and so there is no reason to feel uneasy wearing a masks.

Self-discipline is the remedy in the fight against COVID-19, along with adhering to government guidelines.

Ramachandran Nair — Muscat