The government yesterday announced the number of tests that have been conducted to detect COVID-19 cases. More than 52,527 tests have been conducted among Emirati nationals and residents. Out of which 378 new cases were detected, taking the country's total number to 47,360.

The numbers were shared during the regular government briefing. During the briefing government spokesperson Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, and Salem Al Zaabi, Acting Director of the Federal Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Prosecution, shared the latest update Covid-19 cases and measures undertaken to reduce its impact.

Dr. Al Shamsi said as things are reopening and going back to back to normalcy, citizens and residents have to be more responsible for implementing safety and precaution measures. The UAE leadership will continue to take all necessary steps to combat then disease.

As per the briefing, an additional 365 patients have fully recovered, bringing the total recoveries to more than 35,834. About 11,215 patients are being treated; most of them are in stable condition.

One person has died due to COVID-19 related complications, taking the total fatalities to 311.

Al Zaabi said the National Disinfection Programme could be successfully completed due to citizens' consistent efforts and residents.

The Federal Emergency, Crisis, and Disasters Prosecution, which collaborates with other relevant authorities to detect any violations of the safety guidelines, will ensure that society remains actively engaged in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Al Zaabi cautioned that after the disinfection program's completion, several violations have been reported. Violations include failure to maintain safe distance norms, wear masks, and organize crowded gatherings at public and private places.

Al Zaabi warned such deviant behavior would go against work done to prevent the spread of the disease. All violators will be liable and will be fined.

He reiterated that gathering in public and private places, houses, farms, or estates is not allowed. Family visits are allowed only for first degree relatives, only when distancing norms are maintained.

Wearing of masks in all closed places, public transport, commercial hubs, and while walking crowded areas, and in private transportation must be followed. Masks should be worn at offices, labour camps.

COVID patients must observe home or facility quarantine, repeated tests as instructed by health authorities, or call them using the TraceCovid app. Those who fail to comply with these crucial measures, will be answerable to law.

Repeated offenders will have to pay double fine. Third-time violators will be subject to legal action and can face imprisonment of up to six months and an additional fine of AED100, 000, Al Zaabi said.

WAM