Coronavirus in Iran, Gulf states and Middle East

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Virus recovery rate continues to rise in Saudi Arabia

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia on Tuesday recorded another 493 recoveries from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and 471 new infections.

Daily recovery figures in the Kingdom have been on a steady rise. Out of a total of 351,455 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the beginning of the outbreak in March, 338,281 people have completely recovered.
Saudi cities are now reporting new cases in double digits, a significant improvement on the three-figure numbers being recorded earlier in the year when virus infections reached a peak on June 16.
Riyadh had the highest number of recoveries on Tuesday at 99, with Madinah registering 89, and Dammam 37.

There were 17 new COVID-19-related deaths in the country, taking the total number of fatalities to 5,576. There are currently 7,598 active cases, of which 794 patients were in serious condition.
Meanwhile, 64,590 polymerase chain reaction tests were conducted in the past 24 hours, raising the total tally of checks carried out in the Kingdom to 8.6 million.
The Ministry of Health recently published a set of health information guidelines for coronavirus patients who are in home quarantine.
For those suffering from shortness of breath, it is advised to remain calm and sit in an upright position while relaxing shoulders, inhaling from the nose and exhaling from the mouth. For those with a cough, it is recommended to lay on your side or sit upright and avoid laying back. As for those suffering from a fever, the ministry encourages bed rest, drinking lots of fluids to avoid dehydration and taking medicines such as paracetamol.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1761156/saudi-arabia.

 

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Iran's daily COVID-19 death toll hits new record

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 11

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 11,780 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 462 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,601 people is critical.

The official said that Iran's Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, East Azerbaijan, South Khorasan, Semnan, Qazvin, Lorestan, Ardabil, Khuzestan, Kermanshah, Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, Gilan, Bushehr, Zanjan, Ilam, Razavi Khorasan, Mazandaran, Chaharmahal, and Bakhtiari, Alborz, West Azerbaijan, Markazi, Kerman, North Khorasan, Hamadan, Yazd and Kurdistan provinces are considered 'red' zones.

So far, more than 5.34 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 715,000 people have been infected, and 39,664 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 536,100 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101108534/Irans-daily-COVID-19-death-toll-hits-new-record.

 

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302 new coronavirus cases, 5 deaths reported in Oman

Muscat: The Ministry of Health has registered 302 new coronavirus cases and 5 deaths in Oman.

The total cases in the country have now touched 119,186 including 109633 recoveries and 1321 deaths, according to MOH.

In the past 24 hours, 303 recoveries were reported.

The ministry urged everyone to adhere to social distancing instructions issued by the Supreme Committee and the MOH.

Source: https://timesofoman.com/article/302-new-coronavirus-cases-5-deaths-reported-in-oman.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,214 Covid-19 cases, 741 recoveries

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Wednesday reported 1,214 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 741 recoveries. Two deaths were also reported.

As many as 114,653 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to nearly 14.5 million tests so far.

Stick to Covid rules, help UAE reach ‘final recovery stage'

For the UAE to be able to reach the "final recovery stage", residents' compliance with all Covid-19 safety measures is a must, a government official said on Tuesday. Calling Covid-19 the ultimate test of resilience, Dr Saif Al Dhaheri, official spokesperson for the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, said the UAE is one of the countries that was able to control the situation by making every possible effort. It has also entered the planning stage for recovery, for which it had set up a national committee.

'Many sectors have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, especially the health sector, economy, tourism, sports, education, aviation and transport. However, the proactive policy adopted by the UAE has allowed us to contain the situation and gradually bring back normalcy to life, Dr Al Dhaheri said.

7 days' quarantine for international passengers still mandatory in Kerala

International passengers coming to Kerala will still have to undergo mandatory seven days' quarantine, a state government official said while rubbishing some media reports which claimed that it has been scrapped. Dr A Kowsigan IAS, commissioner, disaster management at the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, told Khaleej Times the quarantine order for international passengers, which was issued in September this year, stands as it is. Dr Kowsigan said the state has made no decision to revise its quarantine regulations even though the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare updated the quarantine protocols on November 5. 'All asymptomatic incoming passengers must mandatorily undergo seven days' home quarantine, which will be followed by a Covid-19 test from a laboratory nearest to their home in Kerala, said Dr Kowsigan.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101110944/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1214-Covid-19-cases-741-recoveries.

 

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193 new coronavirus (COVID-19) recoveries, 224 new positive cases, no new death recorded in Qatar: MoPH

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has just announced the latest coronavirus (COVID-19) figures here in Qatar. Check them out below:

Summary of new infections, recoveries and deaths
224 confirmed new cases infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) virus bringing the total number of positive cases in Qatar to date to 134,887. Of these positive cases, 167 are cases recorded among community members within Qatar and 57 cases among travellers returning from abroad who are subject to quarantine. All new cases are in isolation and are receiving the necessary health care according to their health status.
193 people recovered from the virus during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of people that have recovered in Qatar to 131,926.
No new death was recorded in the past 24 hours. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths to date in Qatar to date is 233.

Current status of the coronavirus (COVID-19)
Measures to tackle coronavirus (COVID-19) in Qatar have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus and the number of new daily cases and hospital admissions is continuing to decline each week.
Qatar’s proactive and extensive testing of suspected cases has enabled us to identify a high number of positive cases in the community.
Qatar has one of the lowest coronavirus (COVID-19) death rates in the world. This is a result of:
Qatar’s young population
Proactive testing to identify cases early
Expanding hospital capacity, especially intensive care,  to ensure all patients receive the medical care they need
Protecting the elderly and those with chronic diseases.
Even though restrictions are being lifted, and numbers are declining, this does not mean that the COVID-19 pandemic is finished in Qatar – everyday between 50 and 100 people are admitted to hospital with moderate to severe COVID-19 symptoms.
Unless we follow all precautionary measures, we may experience a second wave of the virus and see numbers increasing – there are already signs of this happening in other countries around the world.
Now more than ever, we must be careful and protect the most vulnerable. ​
While the restrictions of coronavirus (COVID-19) are gradually being lifted in Qatar, it is important for everyone to play their role in controlling the virus by following the following precautions:
Remain committed to social distancing.
Avoid social visits to reduce their risk of contracting the virus.
Wear a face mask as recommended when out of the house.
Wash hands with soap and water regularly; if not available use a sanitiser.
It is important that we continue to protect the elderly and those suffering from chronic diseases and remind their family members to follow strict measures to reduce the chances of infection, including refraining from social visits.
Call the toll free 24/7 coronavirus hotline at 16000 for information or if you have COVID-19-like or flu-like symptoms. This is important as the earlier the disease is detected the easier it will be to receive the right treatment and recover from it.​ The four main testing centres are:
Muaither Health Centre
Rawdat Al Khail Health Centre
Um Slal Health Centre
Al Gharafa Health Centre
What you can do to stay safe
The Ministry also recommends that you regularly visit the MoPH website to view the latest information and instructions related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and for the most up-to-date guidance on how to stay safe.

Source: https://www.iloveqatar.net/coronavi...eath-recorded-in-qatar-mo-ph-11-november-2020.

 

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Jordan- 81 COVID deaths, 5,419 infections recorded Wednesday

(MENAFN - Jordan Times) AMMAN — Eighty-one COVID-19 deaths and 5,419 virus cases were recorded in the Kingdom on Wednesday, increasing the caseload to 126,401, the government announced.

The reported fatalities took the Kingdom's coronavirus death toll to 1,467, according to a joint statement issued by the Prime Ministry and the Health Ministry.

The local cases comprised 2,514 infections in Amman, 795 in Zarqa, 704 in Irbid, including 200 in Ramtha District, 85 in Maan, including 26 in Petra District, 173 in Aqaba, 261 in Ajloun, 223 in Madaba, 289 in Balqa, 26 in Karak, 54 in Mafraq, 200 in Jerash and 95 in Tafileh.

A total of 344 COVID-19 patients were admitted to hospitals on Wednesday, taking the number of cases receiving treatment in hospitals to 1,784, of which 405 patients were in ICUs, the statement said.

The statement also added that 167 recovered patients left hospitals.

A total of 21,342 virus tests were also conducted on Wednesday, bringing the cumulative number of coronavirus tests administered to 2,117,042.

The percentage of positive tests for Wednesday stood at 25.3 per cent, the statement added.

Amid the growing number of local infections, the Ministry of Health has renewed its call on the public to abide by defence orders, as well as to adhere to precautionary measures, mainly wearing face masks and avoiding holding gatherings that exceed 20 people.

The ministry also highlighted the 'Aman' (Safety) application for smartphones, which alerts users if they come into contact with a COVID-19 positive person, as well as 'Sahtak' (your health) application, which provides users with the latest information and news related to COVID-19, in addition to guidelines and warnings pertaining to the Kingdom's epidemiological situation.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101118948/Jordan-81-COVID-deaths-5419-infections-recorded-Wednesday.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,136 Covid-19 cases, 773 recoveries, 3 deaths

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Thursday reported 1,136 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 773 recoveries. Three deaths were also reported.

As many as 128,186 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to over 14.6 million tests so far.

Covid-19 positive cases per total tests in Abu Dhabi remains at 0.39%

Abu Dhabi has maintained a very low percentage of Covid-19 positive cases over the recent months. According to the statement issued by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the percentage of confirmed cases per total tests conducted across the emirate over the past three months remained at 0.39 per cent. Abu Dhabi's Emergency, Crisis & Disaster Committee also announced that the National Screening Programme and other testing initiatives will continue in order to curb the spread of Covid-19 in the emirate.

UAE demonstrated tolerance while dealing with Covid-19: Minister

The UAE demonstrated its complete belief in the principles of tolerance and coexistence while battling Covid-19, a UAE minister has said. 'The UAE has extended the hand of cooperation and synergy to all countries of the world to face the pandemic and address its effects and repercussions. This confirms that the values of tolerance, peace, solidarity and brotherhood in the UAE society are firm values that will continue to exist as long as humanity exists, said Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bawardi, the UAE's Minister of State for Defence Affairs. This came as he announced the fifth edition of the Ministry of Defence's annual leadership conference. The ‘Wars in the 21st century' conference will be held virtually on November 16 under the theme ‘The role of defence in national resilience beyond 2020'.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101117178/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1136-Covid-19-cases-773-recoveries-3-deaths.

 

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Covid-19 books fly off the shelves at Sharjah fair

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) New Covid-19 titles exhibited at the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) have been flying off the shelves, publishers said.

Mariam Mohammed, one of the SIBF's participating publishers, said several visitors approach their stall, asking about new books that offer comprehensive information about the virus that brought the world to a standstill.

Anticipating such high demand, publishing houses have prominently displayed their Covid-19 books, which highlight various aspects of the pandemic — including how the virus spreads, how to stay safe, and the psychological impact of quarantine.

During a tour of the fair, Khaleej Times spotted several visitors lining up for certain books, including one entitled The emerging corona virus, the nightmare coming from the Far East by Dr Nancy Elyan.

Written in Arabic, the book explores the nature of the virus and the controversy of its transmission and spread around the world in a way unprecedented for a century. It also presents the most important methods and behaviours that must be followed to prevent Covid-19 infection.

The Jordanian Amjad Publishing and Distribution House has also launched Prevention of the Global Coronavirus Pandemic Between Legal Rooting and Medical Miracles by Dr Qutaybah Fawzi Jassam Al Rawi and Dr Hatem Abdullah Al Issawi. It reviews the concept of the Islamic preventive system and clarifies the Islamic legal rooting to prevent epidemics in general.

Another firm, Mahe Company for Publishing and Distribution, is displaying two Covid-19 books. One of them is My Diary and Corona by the Moroccan writer Aisha Bennani, in which she recounted the psychological state and the suffering she felt during the home quarantine period. It also includes thoughts of some Arab writers about their personal experience.

The Freedom in the Time of COVID19 by the Iraqi writer Sundus Al Shawi explores the scenario of having to move away from life's simple joys because of the quarantine.

Another popular title is A World Beyond Coronavirus, which is a strategic report published by the Rafid Centre for Consulting and Policy Analysis.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101117185/Covid-19-books-fly-off-the-shelves-at-Sharjah-fair.

 

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UAE develops Covid-testing tech more accurate than PCR

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) Covid-19 virus can easily be detected even in asymptomatic patients using the latest testing technique developed in the UAE.

The new three-step cost-effective testing approach will improve testing accuracy significantly, according to researchers at New York University Abu Dhabi's (NYUAD) Biology Programme and Centre for Genomics and Systems Biology (CGSB). The testing is more accurate than the widely used Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing method, added the scientists.

They demonstrated reliable ultra-sensitive and quantitative detection of low Covid-19 viral loads (less than one copy/microlitre) using synthetic viral RNA, clinical nasopharyngeal swab samples and saliva samples, including samples previously diagnosed as negative by clinical diagnostic testing.

"We developed and implemented a method that enhances the accuracy of the gold standard PCR by adding one extra step to testing: making billions of copies of viral particles than doing detection, Youssef Idaghdour, assistant professor of biology at NYUAD, told Khaleej Times.

'Our three-step approach will reduce the false negative rate of standard RT-PCR-based diagnostic tests for Covid-19 and other viral infections. This would allow public health officials to more readily identify and trace asymptomatic individuals, enhance the accuracy of air and environmental sampling for Covid-19, expand accurate detection to saliva testing and help curtail the spread of the virus.

'Using nanotechnology (lab-in-a-chip) to increase precision further, proved crucial to detect very low viral loads in samples which is typical in asymptomatic individuals. We validated this approach and detected the virus in samples previously diagnosed as negative using standard PCR testing," explained Idaghdour.

'By adding a pre-amplification step and using microfluidic technology, we have demonstrated that this sensitive detection method can detect low viral loads, which is critical to enabling the most effective public health responses to the Covid-19 pandemic, he said .

Source: https://menafn.com/1101117177/UAE-develops-Covid-testing-tech-more-accurate-than-PCR&source=26.

 

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Iran’s Covid Deaths Surpass 40,000

Deaths from the Covid-19 epidemic in Iran went past 40,000 on Thursday, as authorities mulled over shutting down cities hit hardest by the virus to give the country’s strained healthcare system some breathing room.

The Health Ministry announced the death of a further 461 coronavirus patients on Friday, taking the national toll to 40,582, Sima Sadat Lari, the ministry’s spokeswoman, was quoted as saying by IRNA.

“Some 11,730 tested positive for Covid-19 within 24 hours and 2,967 were admitted to hospitals,” she added, noting that the tally of cases now stands at 738,000.

President Hassan Rouhani during Thursday’s National Coronavirus Taskforce meeting said they are “reviewing a comprehensive plan” to stem the spread of the disease.

Health authorities have in recent days asserted that nothing short of a full lockdown would curb the outbreak.

Lari said 546,000 have recovered from the respiratory illness and 5,630 are hospitalized in intensive care units.

Iran has performed over 5.42 million PCR tests since the start of the pandemic, she added.

Coronavirus infections worldwide soared to 53.2 million on Friday, as the death toll exceeded 1.3 million.

On Thursday, World Health Organization Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged against complacency in the face of the pandemic and warned, “We may be tired of Covid-19, but it is not tired of us.”

Source: https://financialtribune.com/articles/national/106097/iran-s-covid-deaths-surpass-40000.

 

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Oman opens land borders for citizens, residents

The Gulf state's land borders had remained shut to international travel since March.

Oman has reopened its land borders with neighboring countries to citizens and residents traveling to or from the sultanate, the Ministry of Health said Thursday, some eight months after the borders were closed to fight the spread of COVID-19.

“The borders are open with neighboring countries and travel is allowed for Omanis and residents, and they must adhere to the announced procedures when travelling and upon returning to the Sultanate,” Health Minister Ahmed Al Saidi said during a press conference.

Airports in Oman resumed international flights on Oct 1. The Gulf country’s land borders have been closed to international travel since March 16, but were open for trade and the delivery of medical supplies.

Travelers must obtain a negative coronavirus test no more than 96 hours before arrival. Upon arriving, they are required to take another test and undergo a seven-day quarantine, followed by a third test on the eighth day.

After reaching 100,000 cases in early October, authorities in Oman imposed a two-week-long nighttime curfew to stave off an uptick in COVID-19 infections. But Oman’s daily caseload is now on the decline.

The Health Ministry reported only 35 new cases on Thursday, down from 1,000-plus per day in October. The country’s total number of infections since February now stands at 119,442, with 1,326 deaths.

The country will also reopen a number of mosques for public prayers on Sunday. Under the new rules, about 3,000 mosques can open their doors for 25 minutes for each of the five daily prayers. Friday prayers are still barred until further notice, and children and elderly worshippers are not permitted entry.

Source: https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/or...el-borders-airports-citizens-coronavirus.html.

 

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COVID-19: UAE reports 5 deaths, 1,226 new coronavirus cases

The latest update was announced by MoHAP on Friday

Abu Dhabi: The UAE has announced 1,226 new cases of COVID-19, taking the overall tally in the country to 147,961.

According to the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), the latest coronavirus patients, all of whom are in a stable condition and receiving the necessary care, were identified after conducting more than 124,494 additional COVID-19 tests among UAE citizens and residents over the past few days.

Five more deaths from the deadly virus have been also confirmed, taking the country’s death toll to 528.

The ministry also announced the full recovery of 668 new cases after receiving the necessary treatment, taking that number up to 141,883 of total recovered patients.

The ministry expressed its sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to all patients, calling on the public to cooperate with health authorities and comply with all precautionary measures, particularly social distancing protocols, to ensure the safety and protection of the public.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/cov...hs-1226-new-coronavirus-cases-1.1605257845909.

 

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COVID-19: 203 recoveries, 235 new cases, 0 death in Qatar on 13 November

Source: https://www.iloveqatar.net/coronavi...d-cases-of-covid-19-in-qatar-13-november-2020

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,174 Covid-19 cases, 678 recoveries

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Saturday reported 1,174 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 678 recoveries.

No deaths were announced today as a result of the illness and 125,915 new Covid-19 tests have been carried out in the country.

More than 14.7 million Covid-19 tests have been carried out in the UAE so far.

On Friday, the authorities announced that the land borders across the UAE are set to reopen on Monday, allowing free movement but with strict Covid-19 measures in place. Citizens of Oman will be allowed to enter the country through the land ports without having to get prior approval. Omanis will be required to present a negative PCR test result and it must have been issued by accredited laboratories in their country. Visitors will have to follow the local quarantine procedures that are in place in various emirates, the ICA noted. Land borders between the UAE and Oman had been closed since March because of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Indian expats are marking Diwali with happiness and fervour. However, they will avoid community gatherings and keep the celebrations intimate, limiting it to close family get-togethers and video calls. Authorities have called on expats, as well as all residents, to adhere to safety measures and avoid large gatherings, to prevent the spread of Covid-19, especially while celebrating Diwali.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101126097/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1174-Covid-19-cases-678-recoveries.

 

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Iran to implement new limits to fight Coronavirus

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) TEHRAN, Iran, Nov.14

Trend:

Iranian government to implement new limitations across the country from November 21 for a week, said Iranian President.

"The following limitations will be implemented across the country and its results would be reviewed weekly while each city could add its own regulations, and the Health Ministry would monitor them," said Hassan Rouhani, Trend reports citing IRNA.

"We are facing Coronavirus spread for nine months and the new wave has emerged across the world, we have increased limitations in recent weeks on 90 counties. The plan to implement limitations in cities would continue until the end of the coronavirus situation, the aim is to reduce transportation and large gatherings" he said.

According to the president, the following limitations would show the necessity to avoid gatherings, wear masks, and follow health protocols. He went on to say that it is possible that the virus could remain until the next Iranian year (starts March 21, 2021), since we have not found any definite cure and vaccine

"The instructions should be implemented to reduce infections while the symptoms should be tested early to prevent deaths while infected individuals should be quarantined," he added.

"There is currently no mask shortage and the electronic government should develop more to reduce people's physical attendance in offices," he noted.

Rouhani also mentioned that all the private hospitals should also be used for treating coronavirus patients, while the arm forces should have the equipment to help healthcare workers and reduce their work.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101126706/Iran-to-implement-new-limits-to-fight-Coronavirus.

 

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Qatar Saturday reports 203 new Covid-19 cases, 221 recoveries

(MENAFN - Gulf Times) The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) on Saturday reported 203 new confirmed cases of coronavirus during the last 24 hours, of which 157 are from community and 46 from travellers returning from abroad.

The MoPH also recorded 221 recoveries from the virus during the same period, bringing the total number of recoveries to 132,577.

All new cases have been placed in isolation and are receiving necessary healthcare.

The ministry said measures to tackle Covid-19 in Qatar have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus and the number of new daily cases and hospital admissions is continuing to decline each week.

Qatar's proactive and extensive testing of suspected cases has enabled the ministry to identify a high number of positive cases in the community.

Qatar has one of the lowest Covid-19 death rates in the world.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101126151/Qatar-Saturday-reports-203-new-Covid-19-cases-221-recoveries.

 

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Iran reaches new daily record on COVID-19 pandemic

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 15

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 12,543 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 459 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,666 people is critical.

So far, more than 5.5 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from Iranian officials, over 762,000 people have been infected, and 41,493 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 558,800 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101128423/Iran-reaches-new-daily-record-on-COVID-19-pandemic.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,210 Covid-19 cases, 691 recoveries, 2 deaths

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Sunday reported 1,210 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 691 recoveries.

Two deaths were also reported. As many as 126,916 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to over 14.97 million tests so far.

Meanwhile, the Nobel UN agency has warned that 2021 is going to be worse than 2020.

The head of the World Food Program (WFP) says the Nobel Peace Prize has given the UN agency a spotlight and megaphone to warn world leaders that next year is going to be worse than this year, and without billions of dollars "we are going to have famines of biblical proportions in 2021".

The WFP needs $15 billion next year — $5 billion just to avert famine and $10 billion to carry out the agency's global programs including for malnourished children and school lunches which are often the only meal youngsters get.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101129322/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1210-Covid-19-cases-691-recoveries-2-deaths.

 

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Qatar- More people face prosecution for violating Covid-19 precautionary measures

(MENAFN - The Peninsula) Doha: Ministry of Interior (MoI) has referred 130 more people to the Public Prosecution on November 15 for not wearing masks, which is mandatory as part of Covid-19 precautionary measures.

Ministry also took action against 5 people for exceeding the number of people allowed in a vehicle.

The maximum number of people allowed in a car is 4, including the driver, except for members of the same family.

MoI and health authorities have been continuously warning public to follow the precautionary measures like wearing mask, following social distancing and restricting number of people in vehicles to fight the Covid-19 pandemic from spreading.

"In the implementation of the cabinet decision and Law No. 17 of 1990 regarding infectious diseases, and the preventive and precautionary measures in place to limit the spread of the Coronavirus. The competent authorities referred 130 people to the Public Prosecution, as they did not comply with wearing masks in places where it is mandatory," Ministry said in a statement.

Till now 550 people have been referred to the Public Prosecution for not wearing masks and 28 people for not following the limit of people inside a vehicle.

"The competent authorities call on the public to adhere to the precautionary and preventive decisions in force to protect them and others from the spread of the Coronavirus in society," the statement added.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101128316/Qatar...for-violating-Covid-19-precautionary-measures.

 

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Iran reveals its COVID-19 data for November 16

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 16

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,053 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 486 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,677 people is critical.

So far, more than 5.54 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 775,100 people have been infected, and 41,979 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 564,600 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101132745/Iran-reveals-its-COVID-19-data-for-November-16.

 

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Jordan records 71 fatalities, 5861 new Covid-19 cases: MoH

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov. 16 (Petra) -- The Ministry of Health announced 71 fatalities and 5861 new Covid-19 cases were recorded in the Kingdom on Monday, bringing the death toll to 1843, and the caseload to 149539.
A total of 3169 cases were recorded in Amman, 769 in Irbid, including 147 in the northern border district of Ramtha, 437 in Zarqa, 293 in Balqa, 281 in Aqaba, 202 in Jerash, 140 in Madaba, 130 in Karak, 123 in Tafila, 114 in in Ma'an, including 90 infections in southern district of Petra, 102 in Mafraq and 101 in Ajloun, according to the media statement issued by the Prime Ministry and the Ministry of Health.
The number of hospitalizations on Monday to receive medical treatment in accredited hospitals reached 283, while 244 patients have left hospitals after recovery, said the joint statement.
The total number of patients who are currently receiving treatment in hospitals has reached 2141, including 454 on intensive care beds, added the government .
Meanwhile, 26475 additional lab Covid-19 tests were conducted, bringing the cumulative number administered since the start of the pandemic to 2210501, the statement pointed out.
The percentage of positive tests on Monday has reached approximately 22.1 percent, the statement noted.
Amid the growing number of local infections, the Ministry of Health has renewed its call on the public to abide by defense orders, as well as adhering to precautionary measures, mainly wearing face masks and avoiding holding gatherings that exceed 20 people.
The ministry also highlighted the "Aman" (Safety) application for smartphones, which alerts users if they come into contact with a COVID-19 positive person, as well as "Sahtak" (your health) application, which provides users with the latest information and news related to COVID-19, in addition to guidelines and warnings pertaining to the Kingdom's epidemiological situation.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101134637/Jordan-records-71-fatalities-5861-new-Covid-19-cases-MoH.

 

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COVID-19 cases in GCC: 19 die in Saudi Arabia, 12 in Oman, 4 in Kuwait

Total cases in five GCC countries climbs to 832,334; death toll rises to 8,437

Dubai: The total cases of COVID-19 in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain has risen to 832,334 on Monday, while the death toll has now touched 8,437.

Kuwait
Kuwait today reported 498 new cases of COVID-19 and four more deaths on Monday, taking the total number of confirmed infections to 137,329 and total fatalities to 842, the Ministry of Health said.

According to the ministry’s latest update, a further 829 fresh recoveries were also registered, pushing total people recovered across the country to 128,414.

Active cases have now touched 8,073 out of which 115 are serious cases under intensive care.

Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s daily count of COVID-19 cases continued to drop considerably with only 301 infections reported on Monday, the Ministry of Health said.

This brings the total number of confirmed infections in the Kingdom to 353,556. The ministry also reported 19 more deaths, taking the Kingdom’s fatality tally to 5,676.

A further 364 fresh recoveries were recorded over the past 24 hours, raising the total number of people recovered to 340,668, with the recovery rate rising to 96.35 per cent.

According to the ministry’s latest update, active cases have now reached 7,212 active cases, 823 of which are critical.

Oman
The Ministry of Health registered 329 new coronavirus cases and 12 deaths over 24 hours in Oman. The total cases in the Sultanate have now touched 120,718, including 1,350 deaths, according to the latest update by the ministry.

A further 350 recoveries were reported, pushing total recoveries to 111,446.

Qatar
The Ministry of Public Health today recorded 243 new coronavirus cases in Qatar, bringing the total cases in the country to 136,028.

One fatality was reported over the past 24 hours, taking death toll to 235. Another 226 patients have fully recovered, pushing total recoveries across the country to 133,010. Active cases have fallen to 2,783, including 270 that are still under treatment, while 35 are critical under intensive care.

Bahrain
The Ministry of Health reported 180 new cases of COVID-19, one fatality and 169 fresh recoveries. This brings total cases to 84,703, deaths to 334, and overall recoveries to 82,469.

Of the new cases, 58 are expatriate workers, 114 new infections after contact with active cases, and 8 are travel related. The new cases were detected after 9,489 PCR tests were conducted across the Kingdom over the past 24 hours.

Active cases have declined to 1,900, out of which 1,879 are stable and 21 are critical under intensive care.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/cov...audi-arabia-12-in-oman-4-in-kuwait-1.75314535.

 

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Palestine records 7 new deaths from coronavirus

Palestinian authorities record some 836 additional virus infections in West Bank, Gaza Strip

RAMALLAH, Palestine

Palestinian health authorities recorded seven additional fatalities from the coronavirus pandemic in the occupied West Bank on Monday.

Health Minister Mai al-Kaila said a total of 836 new virus cases were registered over the past 24 hours – 383 cases in the West Bank and 453 in the Gaza Strip.

According to the minister, 40 patients are still in intensive care units.

Monday’s tally brings the overall count to 76,162 confirmed cases, including 647 deaths, and 66,553 recoveries.

Source: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/latest-on-...records-7-new-deaths-from-coronavirus/2045464.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,255 Covid-19 cases, 715 recoveries, 4 deaths

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Tuesday reported 1,255 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 715 recoveries. Four deaths were also reported.

As many as 105,024 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to over 15.1 million Covid-19 tests so far.

UAE extends visa fine waiver until end of 2020

People who have overstayed their UAE visas now have until the end of the year to leave the country without having to pay fines, the authorities have announced. The short-term amnesty, which was introduced on May 14, was supposed to end today, November 17.

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) said illegal residents, whose visas expired before March 1, would have their fines waived if they are able to exit the UAE on or before the end of December. All penalties and restrictions involving Emirates IDs and work permits shall also be lifted, said Major-General Saeed Rakan Al Rashidi, ICA's Acting Director-General for Foreigners Affairs and Ports.

Over 30,000 UAE Armed Forces personnel vaccinated against Covid-19

More than 30,000 UAE army personnel have received the Covid-19 vaccine to keep the force safe from infections, a senior official from the Ministry of Defence has said. Brigadier-General Dr Aisha Al Dhaheri, commander of medical service corps, UAE Armed Forces, said those who received the jabs included military contractors and national services recruits. The men and women in uniform, she said, have been on the frontlines of the country's fight against the coronavirus. They helped deliver critical care supplies, transported critically ill patients to hospitals and ensured border security amid the pandemic. 'We used military personnel for case detection by creating five screening centres. We also supported the vaccination trials for the UAE, said Dr Dhaheri.

Sharjah wedding, event halls reopen: Key guidelines to be followed

The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) has issued a circular spelling out a slew of protocols that should be followed by wedding venues and events halls, which were allowed to reopen from November 1 with strict anti-Covid measures. The department will carry out inspections to ensure compliance of these conditions and take stringent action against the offenders. The guidelines include wearing face masks and gloves, and following social distance of two meters between people. The number of guests should not exceed 50 per cent of the hall's capacity and the facilities must organise awareness campaigns for employees about the prevention and protection against the infection, said Salim Ahmed Al Suwaidi, deputy director of commercial control and protection department at SEDD.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101140475/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1255-Covid-19-cases-715-recoveries-4-deaths.

 

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Iranians warned coronavirus deaths may double as cases hit record high

(MENAFN - The Peninsula) Iran's health minister warned on Tuesday that coronavirus deaths may more than double soon if Iranians flout rules aimed at containing the virus, as new cases surged to a record high in the Middle East's worst-hit country.

"This is the last chance for our health system to recover, if people fall short we will lose the game and reach 4-digit death figures ...and that is an abyss from which it is difficult to escape," Health Minister Saeed Namaki said ahead of nationwide restrictions to curb the virus' spread, state media reported.

The government says stricter restrictions will be imposed in the capital Tehran and some 100 other cities and towns from Nov. 21. Non-essential businesses and services will be shut or seriously reduced and cars will not be allowed to leave or enter those cities.

New coronavirus infections in Iran have risen by 13,352 in the past 24 hours, a daily record, taking the cumulative total to 788,473, the health ministry said on Tuesday.

Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari told state TV that a near-record 482 people had died in the past 24 hours, pushing the death toll to 42,461.

Police said a ban on cars leaving or entering provincial capitals would already go into effect on Wednesday, state television reported.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101140517/Irani...may-double-as-cases-hit-record-high&source=27.

 

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Qatar Tuesday reports 194 new Covid-19 cases, 207 recoveries

(MENAFN - Gulf Times) The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) on Tuesday reported 194 new confirmed cases of coronavirus during the last 24 hours, of which 154 are from community and 40 from travellers returning from abroad.

The MoPH also recorded 207 recoveries from the virus during the same period, bringing the total number of recoveries to 133,217.

All new cases have been placed in isolation and are receiving necessary healthcare.

The ministry said measures to tackle Covid-19 in Qatar have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus and the number of new daily cases and hospital admissions is continuing to decline each week.

Qatar's proactive and extensive testing of suspected cases has enabled the ministry to identify a high number of positive cases in the community.

Qatar has one of the lowest Covid-19 death rates in the world.

This is a result of:

— Very high quality of care provided thorough the public healthcare sector for Covid-19 patients.

— Qatar's young population.

— Proactive testing to identify cases early.

— Expanding hospital capacity, especially intensive care, to ensure all patients receive the medical care they need.

— Protecting the elderly and those with chronic diseases.

— Even though restrictions are being lifted, and numbers are declining, this does not mean that the Covid-19 pandemic is finished in Qatar people continue to be admitted with moderate to severe Covid-19 symptoms.

— Unless we follow all precautionary measures, we may experience a second wave of the virus and see numbers increasing there are already signs of this happening in other countries around the world.

— Avoid close contact with others, crowded places and confined closed spaces where other people congregate.

— Now more than ever, we must be careful and protect the most vulnerable.

— While the restrictions of Covid-19 are gradually being lifted in Qatar, it is important for everyone to play their role in controlling the virus by following precautionary measures:

— Adherence to physical distancing.

— Avoid close contact with others, crowded places and confined closed spaces where other people congregate.

— Wearing a face mask.

— Washing hands regularly.

— Most importantly, it is vital that we continue to protect the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions.

— When spending time at home with elderly family members or those with chronic diseases, ensure you wash your hands regularly, wear a mask and maintain social and physical distancing.

Anyone suffering from Covid-19 symptoms should either contact 16000 helpline or go directly to one of the designated health centres to undergo the necessary checks at Muaither, Rawdat Al Khail, Umm Slal, or Al Gharafa. This is important as the earlier the disease is detected the easier it will be to receive the right treatment and recover from it.

The MoPH has urged people to visit its website for regular updates and new information. (QNA)

Source: https://menafn.com/1101140543/Qatar-Tuesday-reports-194-new-Covid-19-cases-207-recoveries.

 

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Palestine reports over 1,150 virus cases, 11 deaths

Total COVID-19 cases now over 77,000, death toll at 658

RAMALLAH, Palestine

Over 1,150 more coronavirus infections and 11 more fatalities and were reported in Palestine on Tuesday.

Nine of the fatalities were in the occupied West Bank and two in the Gaza Strip, officials said.

A total of 1,158 more infections were registered over the past 24 hours – 672 in the West Bank and 486 in the Gaza Strip, according to Health Minister Mai al-Kaila.

Tuesday’s figures raised Palestine’s overall count to 77,320 cases, including 658 deaths and 67,327 recoveries.

The minister said 44 COVID-19 patients are currently in intensive care units.

Source: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/health/palestine-reports-over-1-150-virus-cases-11-deaths/2046961.

 

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Jordan records 66 COVID deaths, 6,454 infections

(MENAFN - Jordan Times) AMMAN — Sixty-six COVID-19 deaths and 6,454 virus cases were recorded in the Kingdom on Tuesday, increasing the caseload to 155,993, the government announced, noting that there are currently 63,817 active cases in Jordan.

The reported fatalities took the Kingdom's coronavirus death toll to 1,909, according to a joint statement issued by the Prime Ministry and the Ministry of Health.

The cases comprised 2,641 infections in Amman, 1,131 in Irbid, including 334 in Ramtha District, 590 in Ajloun, 418 in Mafraq, 371 in Balqa, 356 in Zarqa, 214 in Aqaba, 214 in Madaba, 205 in Maan, including 42 in Petra District, 157 in Tafileh, 110 in Karak and 47 in Jerash.

A total of 289 COVID-19 patients were admitted to hospitals on Tuesday, taking the number of patients currently receiving care for COVID-19 in hospitals to 2,153, of which 474 patients were in ICUs.

The statement added that 200 recovered patients left hospitals, while 4,658 recoveries reported among patients under home-quarantine and hospitals, bringing the total number of recoveries to 90,267.

A total of 27,441 virus tests were also conducted on Tuesday, bringing the cumulative number of coronavirus tests administered to 2,237,942, with the share of tests returning a positive result, known as positive rate, standing at 23.5 per cent, the statement added.

Amid the growing number of local infections, the Ministry of Health has renewed its call on the public to abide by defence orders, as well as to adhere to precautionary measures, mainly wearing face masks and avoiding holding gatherings that exceed 20 people.

The ministry also highlighted the 'Aman' (Safety) application for smartphones, which alerts users if they come into contact with a COVID-19 positive person, as well as 'Sahtak' (your health) application, which provides users with the latest information and news related to COVID-19, in addition to guidelines and warnings pertaining to the Kingdom's epidemiological situation.

The ministry also called on the public to follow its awareness campaign.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101149073/Jordan-records-66-COVID-deaths-6454-infections.

 

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Over 800,000 people infected with COVID-19 in Iran

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 18

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,421 people have been infected with the COVID-19 in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 480 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,712 people is critical.

So far, more than 5.62 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 801,800 people have been infected, and 42,941 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 576,900 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101145628/Over-800000-people-infected-with-COVID-19-in-Iran.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,292 Covid-19 cases, 890 recoveries, 4 deaths

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Wednesday reported cases of the 1,292 Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 890 recoveries. Four deaths were also reported.

As many as 116,396 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to over 15.2 million Covid-19 tests so far.

No gatherings allowed for UAE National Day, Christmas, New Year, say authorities

With big holidays coming up — from the UAE National Day to Christmas and New Year — residents are reminded that strict Covid-19 safety protocols will remain in place and celebrations should be held virtually, the authorities said on Tuesday. Private gatherings are prohibited. 'No gatherings are allowed for celebrations. No food or gifts can be exchanged. People can take part in the celebrations virtually, an official said during the UAE Government's media briefing. 'Concerts that last for more than three to four hours cannot be held without prior approval.

UAE extends visa fine waiver until end of 2020

People who have overstayed their UAE visas now have until the end of the year to leave the country without having to pay fines, the authorities have announced. The short-term amnesty, which was introduced on May 14, was supposed to end today, November 17. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) said illegal residents, whose visas expired before March 1, would have their fines waived if they are able to exit the UAE on or before the end of December. All penalties and restrictions involving Emirates IDs and work permits shall also be lifted, said Major-General Saeed Rakan Al Rashidi, ICA's Director-General for Foreigners Affairs and Ports.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101147347/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1292-Covid-19-cases-890-recoveries-4-deaths.

 

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COVID-19 cases in GCC: 18 die in Saudi Arabia, 10 in Oman, 9 in Kuwait

Total cases in five GCC countries climbs to 835,123

Dubai: The total COVID-19 cases in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain has risen to 835,123 on Wednesday, while death toll has now touched 8,474.

Kuwait
Kuwait today reported 452 new cases of COVID-19 and nine more deaths, taking the total number of confirmed infections to 138,337 and total fatalities to 857, the Ministry of Health said.

A further 792 fresh recoveries were also recorded over the past 24 hours, pushing total people recovered across the country to 129,839, according to the ministry’s latest update.

Active cases have now touched 7,641, out of which 105 are serious cases under intensive care.

Oman
The Ministry of Health registered 411 new coronavirus cases and 10 deaths over the past 24 hours in Oman. The total cases in the Sultanate have now touched 121,129, including 1,360 deaths, according to the latest update by the ministry.

A further 568 recoveries were reported in the last 24 hours, pushing total recoveries in the Sultanate to 112,014.

Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia on Wednesday confirmed the detection of 290 new coronavirus cases, marking the lowest single-day count in more than seven months since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Kingdom.

Eighteen more patients died from complications caused by the virus over the past 24 hours, the Ministry of Health said in its latest update. This brings the total number of confirmed infections in the Kingdom to 354,208 and virus-related fatalities to 5,710.

The ministry also reported 411 new recoveries over the past 24 hours, raising the total recoveries from the deadly virus to 341,515, with the recovery rate rising to 96.41 per cent.

Riyadh recorded the highest number of daily infections with 63 cases, followed by Medina with 29, Hail with 24, and Jeddah with 13 cases. The remaining cases were detected in different cities and governorates across the Kingdom.

With the steady drop in the number of daily cases and the spike in recoveries, the active cases also dropped significantly with 6,983 reported on Wednesday, and out of the total, 808 were critical cases

Qatar
The Ministry of Public Health announced that 219 people have tested positive for coronavirus, bringing the total cases in Qatar to 136,441.

No new fatalities were reported over the past 24 hours, keeping the death tally at 235. Another 256 patients have fully recovered, pushing total people recovered across the country to 133,473. Active cases have fallen to 2,733, including 280 that are still under treatment, while 37 are critical under intensive care.

Bahrain
The Ministry of Health today reported 126 new cases of COVID-19, bringing total cases in the Kingdom to 85,008. No new deaths were reported over the last 24 hours, keeping the Kingdom’s fatality tally at 337.

The new cases were detected as 9,677 COVID-19 tests were carried out in the last 24 hours. Out of the newly detected infections, 45 expatriate workers, 73 new cases are contacts of active cases, and 8 are travel related. The ministry also announced the recovery of 220 people, pushing total recoveries to 82,900.

There are currently 1,771 active cases, out of which 1,755 cases are stable, while 16 cases in critical condition and 34 cases still receiving treatment

Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/sau...audi-arabia-10-in-oman-9-in-kuwait-1.75355917.

 

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Iran reveals COVID-19 data for November 19

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 19

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,223 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 476 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,729 people is critical.

So far, more than 5.66 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from Iranian officials, over 815,100 people have been infected, and 43,417 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 583,700 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101152313/Iran-reveals-COVID-19-data-for-November-19.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,153 Covid-19 cases, 932 recoveries

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Thursday reported 1,153 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 932 recoveries. Two deaths were also reported.

As many as 120,041 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to more than 15.4 million tests so far.

Flouting Covid-19 rules can lead to Dh3,000 fine: Ajman Police

The authorities in Ajman have warned residents that flouting Covid-19 rules can lead to fines of up to Dh3,000.

The Ajman Police in coordination with the Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Team has launched an intensified campaign in the emirate to ensure residents are following all the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

'Community members need to wear a mask whenever they leave their home to avoid the Dh3,000 fine in case of non-compliance, said an official from Ajman Police.

Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine could be cleared for emergency use by December

Pfizer Inc and BioNTech could secure emergency US and European authorisation for their Covid-19 vaccine next month after final trial results showed it had a 95 per cent success rate and no serious side effects, the drugmakers said on Wednesday.

The vaccine's efficacy was found to be consistent across different ages and ethnicities - a promising sign given the disease has disproportionately hurt the elderly and certain groups including Black people.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101153925/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1153-Covid-19-cases-932-recoveries.

 

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Iran launches new plan to confront coronavirus in deprived areas

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) TEHRAN, Iran, Nov. 20

Trend:

The President of Iran University of Medical Sciences announced a new plan to combat Coronavirus known as the "Qassem Soleimani" project in order to diagnose and support patients in deprived areas from Saturday, November 21.

Referring to the implementation of the plan to manage and control the coronavirus outbreak, Jalil KuhpayeZadeh, President of Iran University and deputy Minister of Health said that 'This project will be implemented nationwide from Saturday, November 21, with the participation of Iran University of Medical Sciences, the Ministry of Health, and the Basij Organization, Trend reports citing IRNA.

He emphasized using the capacity of volunteers (medical staff, doctors, nurses, and students) to implement this project.

Referring to the extensive and targeted PCR tests in the designated areas, he said that "Identifying all people in close contact with the infected person, isolating and tracking patients, strengthening the treatment process and reducing the number of hospitalizations is among the goals of the plan.'

According to IRNA, in this project, 400 teams were gathered for the city of Tehran to track patients and people in contact with patients, to screen and quarantine properly.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101158384/Iran-launches-new-plan-to-confront-coronavirus-in-deprived-areas.

 

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UAE confirms 1,269 new COVID-19 cases, 3 deaths

Kuwait records 486 cases and 2 deaths, Bahrain reports 150 cases and 1 death

DUBAI: The UAE on Friday recorded 1,269 new coronavirus cases and three deaths.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention said the total number of cases since the pandemic began has reached 156,523, with the death toll now 547.
The ministry added that 840 people recovered over the previous 24 hours, bringing the total number of recoveries to 147,309.
Elsewhere, Kuwait recorded 486 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 139,308. The death toll reached 861 after two new fatalities were registered.

In Bahrain, one death was reported, bringing the death toll to 338, while 150 new infected cases were confirmed.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1765901/middle-east.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,262 Covid-19 cases, 771 recoveries, one death

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Saturday reported 1,262 new cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 771 recoveries.

One death was also reported. As many as 133,003 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to over 15.1 million Covid-19 tests so far.

In a statement, the ministry stressed its aim to continue expanding the scope of testing nationwide to facilitate the early detection of coronavirus cases and carry out the necessary treatment. The UAE has conducted over 15.5 million tests till date as part of the country's massive screening programmes to combat the spread. However, the ministry has urged the public to cooperate and stick to the Covid-19 precautionary measures outlined by the government.

More than 57.17 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and around 1.36 million have died, according to a tally published on Saturday. With 252,493 deaths and over 11.7 million confirmed cases, the United States tops the list of twenty countries with the highest recorded infections and deaths in the world. And the latest wave of the pandemic is hitting many regions harder than the first that swept the globe after the virus emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year.

Amid the bleak new statistics, Pfizer confirmed on Friday that it and partner BioNTech have applied for emergency use authorisation for their coronavirus vaccine, becoming the first to do so in the US or Europe as the pandemic rages around the world.

The vaccine has been developed with breathtaking speed — just 10 months after the genetic code of the novel coronavirus was first sequenced. The announcement had been expected for several days, after the companies said that a completed study of trials of the product showed it was 95 percent effective in protecting people from infection.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101163100/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1262-Covid-19-cases-771-recoveries-one-death.

 

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Jordan records 56 COVID-19 deaths, 3,826 cases

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov 21 (Petra) The Ministry of Health said Saturday that 56 new deaths and 3,826 cases of coronavirus were recorded across the Kingdom, bringing the death toll from the pandemic to 2,172, and the total number of infections to 178,161.
The cases were: 1,543 in the capital Amman, 361 in Karak, 328 in Balqa, 297 in Ajloun, 295 in Irbid, 213 in Mafraq, 213 in Ma'an, 189 in Aqaba, 139 in Zarqa, 129 in Tafileh, 101 in Madaba and 18 in Jerash, according to the media brief by the Prime Ministry and the Health Ministry.
It said that the number of active COVID-19 cases currently reached 67,636, while 210 were admitted to hospitals and 130 patients were discharged after their recovery.
According to the brief, a total of 2,133 cases are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, including 427 in intensive care.
It also said that 4,519 people infected with the virus, who were in self-quarntine at home or in isolation in hospitals, have recovered, bringing the total number of recoveries to 108,353.
The ministry also said that 18,518 swab tests were taken today, bringing the total number of tests conducted since the start of the pandemic to 2,334,276, adding that the positivity rate for today reached about 20.66 percent.
It urged adherence to defense orders and following preventive measures, especially wearing masks, avoiding gatherings of more than 20 people, using the "Aman" and "Your Health" apps, in addition to following up on an awareness campaign launched by the ministry for prevention from infection.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101163560/Jordan-records-56-COVID-19-deaths-3826-cases.

 

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As many as 12,931 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 431 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,778 people is critical.

So far, more than 5.74 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 841,300 people have been infected, and 44,327 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 596,100 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101162256/Iran-reveals-its-COVID-19-data-for-November-21.

 

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Daily coronavirus report in Palestine: A new record high of daily new cases in Gaza reaching almost 900

RAMALLAH, Saturday, November 21, 2020 (WAFA) – A new record high of daily new coronavirus cases was reported today in the Gaza Strip with cases reaching almost the 900 mark, according to Minister of Health Mai Alkaila.

She said four deaths were reported in Gaza in the last 24 hours as a result of coronavirus and 10 in the West Bank, as Gaza recorded 891 new cases while the West Bank had 595, including 212 in the Nablus district, 95 in the Ramallah district and 91 in the Bethlehem district. No data was available from East Jerusalem.

Alkaila said 225 patients have recovered in the Gaza Strip and 279 in the West Bank, bringing the rate to 84.94 percent of the total corona cases recorded since the outbreak of the pandemic in March.

Active cases increased to 14.22 percent with the sharp rise of new cases in the Gaza Strip over the past few days. Deaths composed 0.84 percent of the total.

According to the minister, 51 patients are getting treatment in intensive care units, among them nine who are on respirators.

Source: https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/122066.

 

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COVID-19 in GCC: 426 new infections in Kuwait, 221 in Saudi Arabia

Qatar has 174 new coronavirus cases while Bahrain reports 150

Dubai: The coronavirus (COVID-19) infected 426 people in Kuwait in the past 24 hours, raising the infection cases to 139,734, since the outbreak of the pandemic. 2 patients died, bringing the death toll to 863.

The number of people hospitalized with the virus currently stands at 7,311, with 84 of them in intensive care units, according to a Health ministry statement, adding that some 5,667 swab tests were conducted over the last day out of a total of 1,047,902 so far.

The ministry also reported that some 511 patients had recovered from the virus over the past day, raising the total of those to have overcome the disease to 131,560.

Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health recorded on Saturday 221 new coronavirus cases over the past 24 hours, marking the lowest single-day number in nearly eight months since the outbreak of the pandemic in the kingdom.

The kingdom has reported less than 300 infections thrice in a week with 286 recorded on Friday and 290 on Wednesday.

Single-day coronavirus-related deaths over the past 24 hours also dropped to 16, the statement added.

This brings the total number of confirmed infections in the Kingdom to 355,034 and virus-related fatalities to 5,761.

The ministry also reported 478 new recoveries over the past 24 hours, raising the total number of people free from the deadly virus to 342,882 with the recovery rate rising to 96.58 percent.

Riyadh recorded the highest number of daily infections with 63 cases followed by Medina with 22, and Mecca Jeddah and Jubail with 12 cases each.

Qatar
The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) announced today 174 new confirmed cases during the last 24 hours, of which 139 are from community cases and 35 from travellers returning from abroad who are subject to quarantine.

The MOPH also recorded 186 recoveries from the virus during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases that recovered in Qatar to 134,100.

Bahrain
Out of 9,486 COVID-19 tests carried out on 20 November 2020, 150 new cases have been detected among 51 expatriate workers, 87 new cases are contacts of active cases, and 12 are travel related. There were 172 recoveries, increasing total recoveries to 83,416.

There are currently 15 cases in a critical condition, and 33 cases receiving treatment. 1,698 cases are stable out of a total of 1,713 active cases.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/cov...ions-in-kuwait-221-in-saudi-arabia-1.75415038.

 

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Iran reports 13,053 new coronavirus cases, 475 deaths

DUBAI (Reuters) - Iran recorded 13,053 new cases of coronavirus and 475 related deaths over the past 24 hours, the health ministry said on Sunday.

That took the total death toll to 44,802 and the tally of cases to 854,361 in the Middle East’s worst-hit state.

On Saturday, Iran introduced tougher restrictions for two weeks to stem a third wave of coronavirus infections, including closing non-essential businesses and travel curbs.

Some Iranian authorities have warned that daily coronavirus deaths could reach 1,200 if the nation failed to respect health protocols, including mask-wearing and social distancing.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-...ew-coronavirus-cases-475-deaths-idUSKBN2820EL.

 

[sweep_shot]

UAE reports 1,205 new COVID-19 cases, 4 deaths

Fujairah bans all types of camping
Kuwait records 322 new cases, 3 deaths, Kuwait records 322 new cases, 3 deaths, Bahrain reports 114 cases
DUBAI: The UAE on Sunday recorded 1,205 new coronavirus cases and four deaths.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention said the total number of cases in the country since the pandemic began has reached 158,990, with the death toll now at 552.
The ministry added that 791 people recovered over the previous 24 hours, bringing the total number of recoveries to 148,871.
The emergency, crisis and disaster management committee in the emirate of Fujairah announced that it will ban all types of camping, including caravans, as part of coronavirus precautionary measures.
The decision, announced by Maj. Gen. Mohamed Ahmad bin Ghanem Al-Kaabi, commander in chief of Fujairah Police, comes as the emirate begins its camping season and as the hot summer weather begins to cool down.
As part of daily inspection tours, Dubai Economy shut down a gaming center located on Sheikh Zayed Road for violating anti-COVID-19 measures on Saturday.
Elsewhere, Kuwait recorded 322 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 140,056. The death toll reached 866 after three new fatalities were registered.

Oman’s Health Ministry said the country’s total number of cases had reached 122,081 and the death toll was 1,380.

In Bahrain, 114 new infected cases were confirmed, and the death toll stands at 338 after no deaths were reported in the previous 24 hours.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1766851/middle-east.

 

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Covid: Gaza health system 'days from being overwhelmed'

Rising numbers of coronavirus cases in the Gaza Strip threaten to overwhelm the Palestinian territory's healthcare system within days, experts warn.

Of Gaza's 100 ventilators, 79 are already taken up by Covid-19 patients, said Abdelraouf Elmanama, of the enclave's pandemic task force.

Densely populated Gaza, with two million residents and high levels of poverty, is vulnerable to contagion.

On Sunday the health ministry reported 684 new cases and three more deaths.

It has recorded more than 14,000 coronavirus cases and 65 deaths in total.

"In 10 days the health system will become unable to absorb such a hike in cases and there might be cases that will not find a place at intensive care units," said Mr Elmanama.

Abdelnaser Soboh, emergency health co-ordinator in the World Health Organization's Gaza office, warned that "within a week, we will become unable to care for critical cases".

Gaza is subject to a longstanding land, sea and air blockade by Israel and Egypt that has devastated its economy and, along with disputes between its Islamist Hamas rulers and rival West Bank-based Palestinian Authority, impaired its public health system.

Israel and Egypt imposed the blockade in 2007 when the Palestinian militant group violently reinforced its control over the territory a year after winning elections. The two countries say the blockade is for self-defence.

Hamas has so far imposed one lockdown on the territory, when infections started to rise suddenly in August. Businesses, schools and mosques were closed.

Israeli Minister of Science and Technology Izhar Shay said international humanitarian aid would be allowed to reach Gaza but warned that his government was "not giving Hamas any 'coronavirus discounts'".

"We will continue responding as [we see] appropriate," he told Israel's Army Radio. "This is the level that we can preserve in the coronavirus context."

In another development, Israel has pledged to provide up to four million doses of a Covid-19 vaccine for the West Bank and Gaza Strip when it becomes available, a senior official from the Palestinian Authority told Israel Hayom newspaper.

The official said that in every agreement signed by Israel with vaccine companies, a percentage of the vaccines would be set aside for the Palestinian territories.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-55035955.

 

[Firebat]

GCC countries surpass 1 million COVID-19 cases: Reuters tally

DUBAI (Reuters) - The six countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have recorded more than 1 million cases of infection with COVID-19, according to a Reuters tally of data published by each government.

The tally in the energy producing region of more than 50 million people stood on Monday at 1,001,182 infections, with 9,162 deaths.

Gulf economic powerhouse Saudi Arabia, which has the highest regional count at more than 355,000 infections and 5,780 deaths, has seen a downward trend in daily case numbers since early July when it was registering around 4,000 cases a day for a few weeks.

Saudi partially lifted its suspension of international flights mid-September and has said it will lift all restrictions on citizens’ foreign travel on Jan. 1.

The country of around 34 million people recorded 224 new cases on Sunday.

Cases in the United Arab Emirates, with the second highest infection count, rose steadily since early August to a high of 1,578 new daily cases in late October. New daily cases in the country of 9.8 million have since dropped back to around 1,200.

Kuwait’s daily case numbers have fluctuated between 900 and 400 a day since early May, and cases in Qatar have seen a steady fluctuation between 200 and 300 new cases a day since early August.

Oman saw a surge in new cases around early October, but daily reported numbers have fallen since.

Cases in Bahrain, which has the GCC’s smallest population of around 1.5 million, have been falling since mid-September.

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-...on-covid-19-cases-reuters-tally-idUSKBN283153

 

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Iran to distribute domestic COVID-19 vaccine by summer of 2021

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) TEHRAN, Iran, Nov. 23

Trend:

The Director of the Virology Department of Iran`s Pasteur Institute announced that most likely, the Iranian vaccine will be distributed in the market by next summer.

'The knowledge of vaccine manufacturing in Iran is old and our country has a lot of experience in this field, but in the current situation and according to the production process of COVID-19 vaccine, the mass production phase will probably last until the summer,' the head of Virology Department of Iran`s Pasteur Institute Keyhan AzadManesh said, Trend reports citing IRNA.

Referring to the three phases of testing the coronavirus vaccine he says that "Phase one last at least one month. After the completion of phase one, it had to be reported to the Food and Drug Administration to be allowed to enter the second phase."

"In some companies, we have just started phase one," he said. "Phase 2, which is an animal vaccine testing, has started in a number of other Iranian companies, and this phase also takes two to three months."

"The first phase mentioned by the Minister of Health was laboratory production. The second is animal testing and the third is a human trial,' said Azadmanesh adding that "The human testing phase also has four phases itself, the last of which is the evaluation of the vaccine after it distributes to the market."

The latest achievements of Iranian researchers for developing COVID-19 vaccine platforms were discussed in a meeting on Tuesday in the presence of Health Minister Saeed Namaki and senior representatives of the World Health Organization.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the health minister said Iran will soon be recognized as one of the leading countries in coronavirus vaccine development.

Vaccine platform in several Iranian companies, including in the pharmaceutical department of the Headquarters for Executing the Order of the Imam, has successfully passed the first and second phases and are going through the third phase, he explained.

Mostafa Ghane'ei, an official with the Vice Presidency for Science and Technology, said that the domestically produced COVID-19 vaccine will probably be injected into the whole population in the [next Iranian calendar year] month of Mehr (starting September 23, 2021).

Source: https://menafn.com/1101170957/Iran-to-distribute-domestic-COVID-19-vaccine-by-summer-of-2021.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,065 Covid-19 cases, 707 recoveries, 2 deaths

More than 15.8 million Covid-19 tests have been carried out in the country so far.
The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Monday reported 1,065 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 707 recoveries.

MoHAP also reported two deaths.

The new cases were identified through over 81,000 additional tests. More than 15.8 million Covid-19 tests have been carried out in the country so far.

The number of active cases in UAE stands at 9,923.

The total number of cases in UAE as of November 23 are 160,055 while total recoveries are 149,578. Death toll rises to 554.

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) facilities and screening centres have adopted saliva-based Covid-19 testing for children aged 3 to 16 years. The test costs Dh150 — the same as a PCR test in Dubai — and the results are made available within 24 hours. The “research-driven and evidence-based move” comes after a joint study by the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and DHA highlighted the diagnostic accuracy of the saliva-based test in children.

AstraZeneca said on Monday its vaccine for the novel coronavirus could be around 90 per cent effective without any serious side effects, the latest drugmaker to unveil positive interim data in a scientific race to curb a global pandemic.

The vaccine developed by Oxford University was 90per cent effective in preventing Covid-19 when it was administered as a half dose followed by a full dose at least one month apart, according to data from the late-stage trials in Britain and Brazil.

Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/corona...s-1065-covid-19-cases-707-recoveries-2-deaths.

 

[sweep_shot]

Daily coronavirus report in Palestine: Nine deaths, 1558 new cases, and 517 recoveries

RAMALLAH, Monday, November 23, 2020 (WAFA) – Nine people have died of coronavirus in the last 24 hours in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, 1558 new cases were recorded and 517 have recovered, today said Minister of Health Mai Alkaila in her daily coronavirus report. No data was available from East Jerusalem.

She said that five of the deaths were in the West Bank and four in the Gaza Strip.

In addition, the West Bank recorded 869 new cases, including 178 in the Nablus district, 135 in Bethlehem, 138 in Hebron, 84 in the Ramallah district, and 88 in the Jenin area. Gaza had 689 new cases.

Recoveries included 319 in the West Bank and 198 in Gaza.

Alkaila said 52 patients are in intensive care, including nine on respirators.

Source: https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/122086.

 

[sweep_shot]

Iran reveals COVID-19 data for November 24

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 24

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,721 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 483 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,824 people is critical.

So far, more than 5.87 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from Iranian officials, over 880,500 people have been infected, and 45,738 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 617,700 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101177340/Iran-reveals-COVID-19-data-for-November-24&source=28.

 

[sweep_shot]

Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,310 Covid-19 cases, 683 recoveries

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Tuesday reported 1,310 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 683 recoveries. Five deaths were also reported.

As many as 100,011 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total number of tests carried out in the country to nearly 16 million so far.

Abu Dhabi inspects school buses for anti-Covid measures

Hundreds of school buses across the emirate are being inspected daily to ensure the implementation of anti-Covid measures for the safety of children, according to authorities. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) announced on Twitter that it was carrying out the inspections that included approximately 1,500 school buses operating in different schools in the emirate. "The daily inspections and continuous follow-up of the inspection teams of schools contributed greatly in enhancing the required awareness and adherence to preventive as well as precautionary measures," ITC tweeted. The centre had in August issued the safety procedures for school buses in Abu Dhabi as the educational institutions opened for the new academic year.

New data helps distinguish Covid-19 from flu

Certain findings can help distinguish Covid-19 from influenza or other respiratory illnesses, a new study suggests.

Israeli doctors studied 693 hospitalised patients with Covid-19, plus more than 8,000 adults who had been hospitalised in previous years for the flu or severe respiratory infections.

Compared to the other patients, those with Covid-19 were on average younger, more overweight, and had fewer pre-existing conditions other than dementia, which was more prevalent in Covid-19 patients.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101179061/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1310-Covid-19-cases-683-recoveries&source=30.

 

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Qatar- Young people majority among Covid-19 protocol violators: official

(MENAFN - Gulf Times) Young people constitute the majority of individuals arrested for non-compliance of the preventive and precautionary measures against Covid-19, a senior official of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) told Qatar Television on Monday.

Major Massoud Jamaan al-Qahtani, head of Ehteraz unit at the National Command Centre, explained that the Ministry of Interior is keen to enforce the cabinet decisions regarding the preventive and precautionary measures against the spread of Covid-19, in particular regarding maintaining proper physical distancing among people in public places, wearing face masks when and where applicable and abiding by the maxim limit of four persons in one vehicle except for family.

To ensure compliance of all the applicable measures, the departments concerned at the MoI keep vehicle patrols in different places in addition to pedestrian patrols to monitor the situation, especially at the places of public concentration such as markets. These patrols are active round-the-clock for the safety and security of the people.

Major al-Qahtni pointed out that the role of the police personnel is limited to spotting the violators and then refer them alongside a report of the violation to the Public Prosecution to take the necessary procedures in accordance with the law.

Due to the increasing number of people spotted violating the preventive measures, the MoI has seen that it is good to announce these figures to remind the public that these measures are still applicable and must be followed strictly for the protection of all, the official added.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101174653/Qatar-Young-people-majority-among-Covid-19-protocol-violators-official.

 

[sweep_shot]

Jordan- 78 new COVID-19 fatalities, 4,586 infections recorded

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov 24 (Petra) Seventy-eight coronavirus deaths and 4,586 infections were recorded in the Kingdom Tuesday, bringing the death toll since the outbreak began to 2,380 and the total number of cases to 192,996, according to the Health Ministry.
The cases were: 1,810 in Amman, 663 in Irbid, 466 in Zarqa, 349 in Mafraq, 330 in Balqa, 290 in Madaba, 189 in Ajloun, 157 in Aqaba, 141 in Tafileh, 96 in Karak, 51 in Ma'an and 44 in Jerash, according to the daily media brief by the Prime Ministry and the Health Ministry.
It said that the number of active COVID-19 cases currently reached 65,183, while 241 patients infected with the virus were admitted to accredited hospitals today, and 256 were discharged after they recovered.
It said that a total of 2,128 cases are currently hospitalized, including 460 in intensive care.
According to the report, 5,419 patients in home isolation and in hospitals recovered today, bringing the total number of recoveries to 125,433.
The Ministry also said that 24,664 swab tests were taken today, bringing the total number of tests since the start of the pandemic to 2,408,242, adding that the positivity rate for today was about 18.6 percent.
It urged adherence to defense orders and preventive measures, mainly wearing masks, avoiding gatherings of more than 20 people as well as following an awareness campaign launched by the ministry to prevent infection and encourage individuals to protect their families and communities.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101179571/Jordan-78-new-COVID-19-fatalities-4586-infections-recorded.

 

[sweep_shot]

Iran reveals its COVID-19 data for November 25

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 25

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,843 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 469 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,832 people is critical.

So far, more than 5.91 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 894,300 people have been infected, and 46,207 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 625,600 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101183836/Iran-reveals-its-COVID-19-data-for-November-25.

 

[sweep_shot]

Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,297 Covid-19 cases, 783 recoveries, 4 deaths

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Wednesday reported 1,297 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 783 recoveries. Four deaths were also reported.

As many as 113,220 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to over 16 million tests so far.

Friday prayers in UAE to resume on December 4

Mosques in the UAE will host Friday prayers starting from December 4, the NCEMA announced on Tuesday. The UAE had resumed congregation prayers at mosques on July 1 with reduced capacity, but Friday prayers remained suspended. Mosques will take in 30 per cent of their capacity for the Friday prayers, authorities said during a virtual briefing. The mosques will open 30 minutes before the sermon (khutbah) and will close 30 minutes after the prayer. The sermon and prayer will last for a total of 10 minutes. Ablution facilities and washrooms at mosques will remain closed. Worshippers are advised to perform the ablution from home. Here's a list of guidelines to follow.

UAE issues car decoration rules, Covid precautionary measures for National Day celebrations

Authorities have announced car decoration rules for the UAE National Day celebrations. The guidelines are issued to enable residents to celebrate the country's 49th National Day safely - according to traffic rules and coronavirus Covid-19 precautionary measures. As announced earlier by authorities, parades and gatherings are prohibited this year. Other rules for drivers and passengers: Traffic rules to be strictly followed; do not cover car rear glass with stickers or use windshield sun shade; do not stand on the roof of the car or pose outside its windows; refrain from performing car stunts; and do not disrupt traffic or block the road.

No Covid-19 test for vaccine volunteers to enter Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Crisis, Emergencies and Disasters Committee has approved special measures for participants of the Phase III clinical trials of the Covid-19 vaccine and those under the National Vaccination Programme.

The special measures will for apply from the first dose for Phase III participants, while for volunteers under the National Vaccination Programme, it will apply 28 days after they get the second jab.

According to an announcement shared on the Abu Dhabi Media Office twitter handle, PCR and DPI tests will no longer be required for both participants when entering Abu Dhabi from any other emirate. A PCR test, however, is mandatory for them when arriving from abroad, but they will not be required to undergo quarantine. For Phase III participants, a PCR test will be done on arrival, while for the National Programme participants tests will be done on the 4th and 8th day after their arrival.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101185890/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1297-Covid-19-cases-783-recoveries-4-deaths.

 

[sweep_shot]

Oman court jails citizen for violating coronavirus rules

MANAMA — An Omani citizen failing to comply with home quarantine measures was handed a 20-day jail sentence and a fine of 500 Omani riyals (SR4,870 approximately) by a local court.

According to a report carried by the state news agency, ONA, on Tuesday, the primary court in the South Al Batinah Governorate issued a verdict convicting a suspect who breached the decisions of the Supreme Committee tasked with tackling developments resulting from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The offender was punished for removing the tracking bracelet aimed to sequester patients infected with the COVID-19 virus. The convict also failed to abide by the home quarantine prescribed to him, ONA reported.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the Sultanate till Tuesday stood at 122,579, while the number of recoveries reached 113,856, accounting for 92.9 percent.

Meanwhile, the total number of virus-related deaths stood at 1,391, according to a statement from the country’s health ministry. — SG

Source: https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/600729.

 

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MoPH reports one Covid-19 death on Nov 25

The Peninsula Online
Doha: Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) today recorded 209 new cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) and 252 people recovered from the virus in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of people recovered in Qatar to 134,950.

Out of the 209 new cases, 168 are community cases and 41 from travellers returning from abroad.

The Ministry also announced the death of a 60-year-old, who was receiving the necessary medical care.

So far, 237 people died from the coronavirus in Qatar.

The total number of positive COVID-19 cases recorded in Qatar is 137,851 and there are 2,664 active cases under treatment.

3709 people were tested for the first time in the last 24 hours (9080 tests in total) taking the total tests done so far to 1,092,622 tests.

There are 30 cases of hospital admissions in the last 24 hours taking the total patients in the hospital to 268.

Two patients were admitted to intensive care, bringing the total number of cases receiving medical attention in intensive care currently to 36.

All new cases have been placed in isolation and are receiving necessary health care according to their health status.

While the restrictions of COVID-19 are gradually being lifted in Qatar, it is important for everyone to play their role in controlling the virus by following precautionary measures:

- Adherence to physical distancing

- Avoid close contact with others, crowded places, and confined closed spaces where other people congregate

- Wearing a face mask

- Washing hands regularly

Source: https://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/25/11/2020/MoPH-reports-one-Covid-19-death-on-Nov-25.

 

[sweep_shot]

Israel's gov't to ease coronavirus restrictions

(MENAFN) Israel"s prime minister's office and Ministry of Health said in a joint statement on Thursday that the country's Corona Cabinet has approved a decree to permit the reopening of chief shopping malls, markets and museums.

The mentioned places will resume working again for the first time since the onset of a complete shutting down in Israel on Sept. 18. The lockdown was declared to halt the hysterical reappearance of the COVID-19 pandemic.


The model program, which will be active as of Friday, will be applied to six major indoor shopping malls, in addition to nine others to be chosen by the finance and economy ministries.


The malls will be opened under restrictions, such as inhibiting gatherings, especially at entrances.

Furthermore, four major museums will be reopened on Friday, along with three more to be selected by the culture ministry.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101190895/Israels-govt-to-ease-coronavirus-restrictions&source=22.

 

[sweep_shot]

Iraq, Iran see rise in poverty rates since coronavirus onset

(MENAFN) ccording to a report by an Ankara-based think-tank, Iraq and Iran have lately been recording a rising trend in poverty rates owing to the critical impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

The report released by Serife Akinci, an expert on Middle East and African Economies Studies, the Center for Middle Eastern Studies (ORSAM) mentioned that poverty in Iraq, which had reached at 20 percent before two years, or about 10 million people, has increased to 31.7 percent as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Iraq"s coronavirus count now stands at 12,086 deaths and 542,187 infections as well as 472,054 recoveries.

The poverty in Iran, the country with the highest number of coronavirus casualties in the Middle East, has turned into a structural problem in recent years.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101190891/Iraq-Iran-see-rise-in-poverty-rates-since-coronavirus-onset&source=30.

 

[sweep_shot]

Jordan registers 67 deaths and 5,000 new COVID-19 infections

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov. 26 (Petra)-- Jordan has recorded 67 deaths and 5,000 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, bringing the total number of cases since the beginning of the crisis to 203,021, a statement issued by the Prime Ministry and the Ministry of Health said.
The new cases include 1,594 in Amman, 545 in Zarqa, 269 in Balqa, 242 in Ajlun, 193 in Aqaba, 48 in Madaba, 993 in Irbid, including 821 in Ramtha, 512 in Karak, 245 in Mafraq, 212 in Jerash, 107 in Ma'an, including 43 in Petra, and 40 in Tafilah.
A total of 241 cases have been admitted to the hospitals, and 188 have been discharged upon recovery.
There are a total of 64,925 active COVID-19 cases.
A total of 4,469 recoveries have been recorded from hospitals and home quarantine, bringing the total amount of recoveries since the beginning of the coronavirus crisis to 135,650.
There are 2,030 patients receiving treatment in hospitals, including 481 in the Intensive Care Units.
A total of 25,964 PCR tests have been conducted, bringing the total number of tests conducted since the beginning of the crisis to 2,461,304.
Thursday, 19.3 percent of PCR tests have come back positive.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101192181/Jordan-registers-67-deaths-and-5000-new-COVID-19-infections&source=30.

 

[sweep_shot]

Kuwait reports 330 new COVID-19 cases, one death

(MENAFN - Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) KUWAIT, Nov 26 (KUNA) -- Kuwait listed 330 new coronavirus infections on Thursday to raise the total to 141,547, while one fatality recorded over the past 24 hours upped its death toll from the outbreak to 872, the health ministry said.
The number of people hospitalized with the virus currently stands at 5,925, with 80 of them in intensive care units, said ministry spokesman Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, adding that some 7,458 swab tests were conducted over the last day out of a total of 1,075,651 so far.
The ministry had earlier reported that some 717 more people had recovered from the virus over the past day, raising the total of those to have overcome the disease to 134,750.
The spokesman went on to urge citizens and expatriates alike that abiding by health precautions, mainly, following social distancing rules, is the only way to halt the spread of the virus. (pickup previous)

Source: https://menafn.com/1101190657/Kuwait-reports-330-new-COVID-19-cases-one-death.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,283 Covid-19 cases, 838 recoveries, 3 deaths

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Friday reported 1,283 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 838 recoveries. Three deaths were also reported.

As many as 145,103 new Covid-19 tests were carried out, taking the total to over 16.2 million tests so far.

In a statement, the ministry stressed its aim to continue expanding the scope of testing nationwide to facilitate the early detection of coronavirus cases and carry out the necessary treatment. The UAE has conducted over 16.2 million tests till date as part of the country's massive screening programmes to combat the spread of Covid-19. However, with a spike in Covid-19 cases in recent days, the ministry has urged the public to follow all preventive guidelines

On Thursday, as the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, opened a new session of the Federal National Council (FNC) he reminded the nation that the pandemic is not yet over. Though the UAE has shown 'exemplary performance in handling the situation, the President said everyone must continue to take precautions.

The President said the pandemic has changed 'everything in the daily routine of people and nations, as well as the priorities of governments around the world. In the face of the challenges, however, the UAE's performance has been exemplary, in terms of its level of progress and magnitude, he said. 'This performance was enhanced and boosted by our will to continue to give. The country has provided medical and relief aid to more than 100 countries worldwide.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101196985/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1283-Covid-19-cases-838-recoveries-3-deaths.

 

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Qatar Friday records 184 new Covid-19 cases, 172 recoveries

(MENAFN - Gulf Times) The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) announced on Friday 184 new confirmed cases of coronavirus (Covid-19), of which 150 are from community cases and 34 from travellers returning from abroad who are subject to quarantine. The MoPH also recorded 172 recoveries from the virus on Friday, bringing the total number of cases that recovered in Qatar to 135,370. All new cases have been introduced to isolation and are receiving necessary healthcare according to their health status.

Measures to tackle Covid-19 in Qatar have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus and the number of new daily cases and hospital admissions is continuing to decline each week.


Qatar's proactive and extensive testing of suspected cases has enabled the authorities to identify a high number of positive cases in the community. Qatar has one of the lowest Covid-19 death rates in the world. This is a result of:

1- Very high quality of care provided thorough the public healthcare sector for Covid-19 patients.

2- Qatar's young population.

3- Proactive testing to identify cases early.

4- Expanding hospital capacity, especially intensive care, to ensure all patients receive the medical care they need.

5- Protecting the elderly and those with chronic diseases.

Even though restrictions are being lifted, and numbers are declining, this does not mean that the Covid-19 pandemic is finished in Qatar. People continue to be admitted with moderate to severe Covid-19 symptoms. Unless we follow all precautionary measures, we may experience a second wave of the virus and see numbers increasing there are already signs of this happening in other countries around the world.

Avoid close contact with others, crowded places and confined-closed spaces where other people congregate.

Now more than ever, we must be careful and protect the most vulnerable.

While the restrictions of Covid-19 are gradually being lifted in Qatar, it is important for everyone to play their role in controlling the virus by following precautionary measures:

- Adherence to physical distancing.

- Wearing a face mask.

- Washing hands regularly.

Most importantly, it is vital that we continue to protect the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions. When spending time at home with elderly family members or those with chronic diseases, ensure you wash your hands regularly, wear a mask and maintain social and physical distancing.

Anyone suffering from Covid-19 symptoms should either contact 16000 helpline or go directly to one of the designated health centers to undergo the necessary checks: Muaither, Rawdat Al Khail, Umm Slal, or Al Gharafa Health Centers. This is important as the earlier the disease is detected the easier it will be to receive the right treatment and recover from it. Visit the MoPH website for regular updates and new information.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101197024/Qatar-Friday-records-184-new-Covid-19-cases-172-recoveries.

 

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Iran to join several countries in coronavirus vaccine development

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) TEHRAN, Iran, Nov. 27

Trend:

Iranian Deputy Minister of Health announced Iran's cooperation with several countries to produce the coronavirus vaccine.

"We are currently making coronavirus vaccine in our country, four of which have been submitted to the World Health Organization in recent days. The progress of Iranian researches is stunning," Iraj Harirchi said, Trend reports citing IRNA.

He went on to say the Iranian coronavirus vaccine will enter the human trial phase in the coming weeks.

Regarding the latest situation of the outbreak in the country, the official said that "With the coronavirus related restrictions imposed, the country`s traffic has decreased by about 35 percent."

Haririchi said that 69 cities came out of the red alert status three days ago.

"This shows that gathering the cooperation of the people and the necessary measures of government will lead the people's livelihoods to return to normal."

Referring to the exacerbation of COVID-19 in winter and the imposition of potential more restrictions, he added that imposing further restrictions depends on the disease situation in the country.

He went on to say that several measures have been taken to increase the salaries of the medical staff compared to last year but reached a satisfactory level has not yet been reached.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101195364/Iran-to-join-several-countries-in-coronavirus-vaccine-development.

 

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Jordan registers 61 COVID-19 related deaths, 4580 new infections

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov. 27 (Petra)-- Jordan has registered 61 COVID-19 related deaths, and 4,580 new infections Friday, bringing the total number of cases since the beginning of the crisis to 207,601, a statement issued by the Prime Ministry and the Ministry of Health said.
The cases include 1,442 in Amman, 648 in Mafraq, 365 in Zarqa, 158 in Tafilah, 138 in Karak, 72 in Ma'an, including 26 in Petra, 867 in Irbid, including 146 in Ramtha, 371 in Jerash, 186 in Madaba, 146 in Balqa, 126 in Ajloun, and 61 in Aqaba.
A total of 234 cases have been admitted to the hospitals, and 194 have been discharged after full recovery.
There are 2,092 patients receiving treatment in hospitals, including 485 in the Intensive Care Units.
A total of 26,257 PCR tests have been conducted, bringing the total number of tests conducted since the beginning of the crisis to 2,487,561, with the share of tests returning a positive result, known as positive rate, standing at 17.4 percent, the statement added.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101197531/Jorda...-related-deaths-4580-new-infections&source=19.

 

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Iran reveals its COVID-19 data for November 28

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 28

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,402 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 391 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,865 people is critical.

So far, more than 6.03 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 935,700 people have been infected, and 47,486 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 648,800 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101200229/Iran-reveals-its-COVID-19-data-for-November-28.

 

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Jordan- 56 COVID deaths, 3,108 cases recorded

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov 28 (Petra) The Ministry of Health said Saturday that 56 coronavirus deaths and 3,108 infections were recorded across the Kingdom, bringing the death toll to 2,626 and the total number of cases to 210,709.
The infections were: 1,089 in Amman, 755 in Irbid, including 166 in Ramtha district, 349 in Karak, 271 in Ajloun, 160 in Balqa, 108 in Mafraq, 104 in Madaba, 86 in Zarqa, 61 in Aqaba, 61 in Jerash, 46 in Tafileha and 18 in Ma'an, 9 of them in Petra, according to the daily report by the Prime Ministry and the Health Ministry.
It said that the number of currently active COVID-19 cases has reached 65,373, while 173 patients were admitted to hospitals and 95 were discharged after they recovered.
The statement said that a total of 1,985 cases are currently hospitalized, of whom 464 are in intensive care.
It also said that 2,373 virus cases in hospitals and in home quarantine recovered today, bringing the total number of recoveries to 142,710.
According to the daily brief, 17,755 COVID swab tests were taken today, raising the total number of examinations conducted since the outbreak to 2,505,316, pointing out that the positivity rate today was about 17.5 per cent.
The Ministry called for adherence to defence orders, and to follow preventive measures, especially wearing masks and avoiding gatherings of more than 20 people, in addition to following the awareness campaign launched by the ministry to prevent infection and encourage others to protect their families and community.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101201475/Jordan-56-COVID-deaths-3108-cases-recorded.

 

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Coronavirus: UAE reports 1,252 Covid-19 cases, 741 recoveries, 2 deaths

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Saturday reported 1,252 cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 741 recoveries and two deaths.

New cases were identified through additional 148,245 tests. The UAE has conducted over 16 million tests till date as part of the country's massive screening programmes to combat the spread of Covid-19.

As of November 28, total cases in UAE stand at 166,502 while total recoveries are 153,449. Death toll stands at 569.

With a five-day weekend to mark the UAE National Day and Commemoration Day coming up next week, authorities have tightened preventive measures.

Overnight camping, caravans not allowed in 3 emirates

The authorities have said that the ban on overnight beach camps and caravans will remain in place in Sharjah. This makes Sharjah the third emirate to retain the ban after Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah made similar announcements. The decisions are aimed at keeping residents safe from the spread of Covid-19.

Residents usually venture out for overnight camping around this time of the year as temperatures dip. Secluded spots in Sharjah, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah are popular among campers.

Authorities from the three emirates have warned that fines will be levied against those who violate the rules, stressing that inspection teams will monitor the areas to ensure compliance.

Parks and public beaches remain open

The police confirmed that parks and public beaches will continue to remain open and residents can use these facilities as long as they adhere to precautionary measures against the spread of Covid-19.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101201041/Coronavirus-UAE-reports-1252-Covid-19-cases-741-recoveries-2-deaths.

 

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Daily coronavirus report in Palestine: 15 deaths, 1461 new cases, and 984 recoveries

RAMALLAH, Saturday, November 28, 2020 (WAFA) – Fifteen people have died after contracting the coronavirus disease in the last 24 hours in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip, 1461 people have tested positive, while 984 patients have recovered, today said Minister of Health Mai Alkaila in her daily coronavirus report in Palestine. No data was available from East Jerusalem.

She said 11 of the deaths were in the West Bank and four in the Gaza Strip.

The West Bank recorded 634 new corona cases, including 135 in Nablus district, 97 in Jenin area, Ramallah 72, Bethlehem 70, and Hebron 72, while 704 patients have recovered.

The Gaza Strip had 827, and 280 recoveries.

According to the minister, 63 patients are in intensive care, including 10 on respirators.

The West Bank is observing a two-week lockdown, with a total all-day and night lockdown on Friday and Saturday, and nightly lockdown from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. every for the rest of the week in an effort to control the spiral in the cases.

Source: https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/122150.

 

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Iran reveals its COVID-19 data for November 29

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 29

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 12,950 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, https://en.trend.az/ Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 389 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,859 people is critical.

So far, more than 6.08 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 948,700 people have been infected, and 47,875 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 658,200 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101204187/Iran-reveals-its-COVID-19-data-for-November-29&source=30.

 

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Sixty-eight death take COVID-19 fatalities in Jordan to 2,694

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov. 29 (Petra) -- COVID-19 killed 68 people in Jordan within the last 24 hours, as the death toll tops 2,694, and a total of 3,600 cases were recorded Sunday, pushing the caseload to 214,307, according to the Ministry of Health (MoH).
Breaking down the cases, the MoH said that 999 cases were recorded in Amman, 989 in Irbid, 270 in Zarqa, 264 in Karak, 246 in Jerash, 230 in Balqa, 218 in Aqaba, 107 in Madaba, 102 in Mafraq, 91 in Maan, 56 in Ajloun and 26 in Tafilah.
The MoH said during a press conference in the Prime Ministry that some 222 people had recovered and were discharged from hospitals Sunday while 204 patients were admitted, as the total number of patients receiving treatment in hospitals stands at 1,941, 462 of whom are in ICUs. The number of active COVID-19 cases in the Kingdom stands at around 63,040, it added.
A total of 148,572 COVID-19 patients, including patients who had been self-isolating, have fully recovered so far.
In the government's efforts to stem the spread of coronavirus, contact tracing teams conducted 20,676 tests Sunday, as the total number now tops 2.52 million.
The MoH urged people to abide by the defense orders and adhere to safety measures, foremost of which is wearing masks, as it warned against holding gatherings of more than 20 people. It also encourages people to follow the MoH's awareness raising campaign on how to stay safe from COVID-19 dubbed "I Protect them."

Source: https://menafn.com/1101205334/Sixty-eight-death-take-COVID-19-fatalities-in-Jordan-to-2694.

 

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Palestinian people's suffering doubled in 2020 amid COVID-19: Arab League

(MENAFN - Daily News Egypt) The suffering of the Palestinian people doubled this year, due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, according to Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the Arab League (AL).

Speaking on Sunday, Aboul Gheit said that the Palestinians have remained captive between the hammer of the occupation's brutality and its violations and racist practices, and the anvil of the pandemic.

The latter has been exacerbated in the Palestinian territories, in light of the occupation and the authorities' insistence on depriving Palestinians of the most basic human rights, including health care.

Aboul Gheit's remarks came during the AL's celebration of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, where it asserted its keenness to emphasise the importance of the Palestinian issue to the Arab world.

He pointed out that this year's event, which was approved by the United Nations General Assembly in its 1977 resolution, comes under exceptional global circumstances due to the coronavirus.

The Arab League head also said that this crisis has imposed an additional new challenge on the international community.

The continuing catastrophic consequences of the Israeli occupation remain a central issue and a major concern for all Arab countries, he added. This comes despite the global preoccupation with the pandemic, and the ongoing deprivation of the Palestinian people's legitimate rights.

"We send a message of solidarity and hope to the Palestinians, that the injustice that has befallen them for more than 70 years will not last, and that the occupation will end as every other occupation known to history has done,,' he said, "Experience has proven, beyond a reasonable doubt, that any attempts to undermine the rights of the Palestinian people and ignore the principles of international law and decisions of international legitimacy are doomed to failure and that any move towards imposing a fait accompli will end.,'

Aboul Gheit confirmed that the Arab League aims to achieve a lasting and comprehensive peace in the region and political solution through the resumption of credible, serious negotiations. These are set to take place under United Nations (UN) supervision, based on relevant international laws and the Arab Peace Initiative.

 Â

He praised those countries that have given their support to the Palestine issue, and against the expansionist settlement practices of the occupation. He also made note of the world's honourable support against Israeli annexation plans.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101204655/Pales...ing-doubled-in-2020-amid-COVID-19-Arab-League.

 

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Iraq Has Reopened Its Schools Amid a Raging Pandemic

BAGHDAD — Iraq has reopened its schools amid a raging pandemic that has claimed more than 12,000 lives across the country, with kids returning to socially-distanced classrooms and other safety measures Sunday.

Students will be attending school only one day per week according to a rotation system meant to prevent crowding and the spread of the new coronavirus, according to the Education Ministry.

Iraq, like much of the rest of the world, has resorted to distance learning after schools closed in February due to the virus outbreak. But online education is out of reach for many in a country with poor infrastructure that has suffered decades of war.

Iraq has the second-highest outbreak and number of deaths in the Middle East region after Iran, with more than 500,000 confirmed cases, according to Health Ministry figures.

Daily infection rates average 2,400 cases per day — a slower rate than in previous weeks — but health workers say the number may be higher as many Iraqis with symptoms choose to stay home and avoid hospitals to get tested.

Source: https://www.thenationalherald.com/c...d_its_schools_amid_a_raging_pandemic-1307820/.

 

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Iran reveals its COVID-19 data for November 30

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 30

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,321 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, https://en.trend.az/ Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 371 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,852 people is critical.

So far, more than 6.12 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 962,000 people have been infected, and 48,246 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 668,100 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101208765/Iran-reveals-its-COVID-19-data-for-November-30.

 

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Jordan records 57 COVID-19 deaths, 5,123 cases Monday

(MENAFN - Jordan News Agency) Amman, Nov. 30 (Petra) -- The Ministry of Health said Monday that 57 new deaths and 5,123 cases of coronavirus were recorded across the Kingdom, bringing the death toll from the pandemic to 2,751, and the total number of infections to 219,430.
The cases were: 1,804 in Irbid, 1,241 in the capital Amman, 626 in Mafraq, 353 in Karak, 245 in Jerash, 241 in Zarqa, 178 in Aqaba, 128 in Tafileh, 122 in Ajloun, 82 in Ma'an, 58 in Balqa and 45 in Madaba and, according to the media brief by the Prime Ministry and the Health Ministry.
It said that the number of active COVID-19 cases currently reached 61,653, while 228 were admitted to hospitals and 191 patients were discharged after their recovery.
According to the brief, a total of 1,941 cases are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, including 462 in intensive care.
It also said that 6,454 people infected with the virus, who were in self-quarantine at home or in isolation in hospitals, have recovered, bringing the total number of recoveries to 155,026.
The ministry also said that 25,239 swab tests were taken today, bringing the total number of tests conducted since the start of the pandemic to 2,551,231, adding that the positivity rate for today reached about 20.3 percent.
It urged adherence to defense orders and following preventive measures, especially wearing masks, avoiding gatherings of more than 20 people, using the "Aman" and "Your Health" apps, in addition to following up on an awareness campaign launched by the ministry for prevention from infection.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101211111/Jordan-records-57-COVID-19-deaths-5123-cases-Monday.

 

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COVID-19 in GCC: 12 die in Saudi Arabia, 5 in Oman, 2 in Kuwait

Total infections in GCC countries rise to 848,854, total fatalities to 8,777

Dubai: The overall tally of COVID-19 infections in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain have now touched 848,854 cases, while the death toll has risen to 8,777.

Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Ministry of Health on Monday reported 232 new cases after reporting record low number of single-day cases for two consecutive days.

The ministry also reported 12 more deaths in the past 24 hours, marking the lowest single-day virus-related fatalities in more than eight months since the outbreak of the coronavirus in the Kingdom. This brings the total number of confirmed infections in the Kingdom to 357,360 and total deaths to 5,896.

The ministry also reported 393 new recoveries over the past 24 hours, raising the total number of people free from the deadly virus to 346,802 with the recovery rate climbing to 97.04 per cent.

Of the new cases, the Riyadh region recorded the highest number of cases with 67, followed by Mecca with 42, Medina with 32, and the Eastern region with 28 cases. The remaining cases were detected in different cities and governorates across the Kingdom.

With the steady drop in the number of daily cases and the spike in recoveries, the active cases in the Kingdom also came down significantly with 4,662 reported over the past 24 hours, out of which 659 are critical cases.

Oman
The Ministry of Health announced that the daily detected COVID-19 cases have continued to fall drastically, with only 215 infections reported on Monday.

This brings total infections in the Sultanate to 123,699, while total deaths have now touched 1,423 as five new fatalities were recorded over the past 24 hours. The total recovered people have risen to 115,216 after 253 fresh recoveries were registered over the last 24 hours.

The ministry has renewed its call on community members to strictly adhere to social distancing protocols and precautionary measures issued by the Supreme Committee and the MoH to curb the spread of the contagion in the Sultanate.

Kuwait
The daily count of coronavirus cases in Kuwait continued to fall significantly, with just 209 new infections reported on Monday.

According to the latest update by the Ministry of Health, the total number of confirmed infections have climbed to 142,635.

Two new fatalities and 658 fresh recoveries were also recorded over the past 24 hours, taking death toll to 880, and overall tally of recoveries to 137,071

The new cases were identified after 4,078 PCR tests were conducted over the past 24 hours, pushing total COVID-19 tests carried out across the country to 1,095,574.

Active cases have now reached 4,684, including 84 seriously infected patients who are under intensive care.

Qatar
The Ministry of Public Health confirmed 185 new cases, bringing the total cases in Qatar to 138,833.

No new fatalities reported over the past 24 hours, keeping the country’s death tally at 237. A further 228 patients have fully recovered, pushing total people recovered across the country to 136,090. Active cases have now reached 2,506, including 280 that are still under treatment, while 32 critical patients are under intensive care.

Bahrain
The Ministry of Health announced 142 new cases in the last 24 hours, bringing the total in the Kingdom to 86,327.

No deaths were reported over the last 24 hours, keeping the Kingdom’s fatality tally at 341. Of the new cases, 59 are expatriate workers, while 78 people had infected with the virus after contacting active cases and five travel related.

The new cases were detected after 9,845 PCR tests were conducted across the Kingdom. There were 192 fresh recoveries, increasing total recoveries to 84,977.

The active cases have now reached 1,469, out of which 1,454 are stable, 24 still receiving treatment and 14 critically ill patients are under intensive care.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/cov...saudi-arabia-5-in-oman-2-in-kuwait-1.75587925.

 

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Daily coronavirus report in Palestine: 15 deaths, 2062 new cases, and 1153 recoveries

RAMALLAH, Monday, November 30, 2020 (WAFA) – Fifteen people have died after contracting the coronavirus disease in the West Bank and Gaza Strip in the last 24 hours, 2062 have tested positive and 1153 patients have recovered, today said Minister of Health Mai Alkaila in her daily report on coronavirus in Palestine. There was no data from East Jerusalem.

She said that 10 of the deaths were recorded in the West Bank and five in the Gaza Strip.

The West Bank also witnessed a surge in new cases with 1314 recorded, including 318 in the Nablus district, 176 in the Ramallah area, 236 in the Hebron district, 134 in Bethlehem, which is getting ready to celebrate Christmas, 149 in Jenin, and 109 in Tulkarm.

In addition, 703 have recovered in the West Bank.

Gaza recorded 748 new cases and 450 recovered, said the minister.

She said 66 patients are currently in intensive care, among them 12 are on respirators.

Source: https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/122188.

 

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Special recognition for UAE frontliners who died battling Covid-19

They will be conferred the 'Fallen Frontline Heroes Order'

The UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has directed that the 'Fallen Frontline Heroes Order' be conferred on those who have lost their lives on the frontlines while tackling Covid-19.

The award is based on a proposal by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and Head of the Fakhr Al Watan Office (Frontline Heroes Office).

The Order recognises the dedication and courage of frontline heroes, and the great sacrifices they made for the UAE and its society while performing their duty. It is an expression of gratitude to them and their families.

Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/news/special-recognition-for-uae-frontliners-who-died-battling-covid-19.

 

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Iran reveals its COVID-19 data for December 1

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, Dec.1

By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:

As many as 13,881 people have been infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the past 24 hours in Iran, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, https://en.trend.az/ Trend reports citing the ministry.

According to Sadat Lari, 382 more people have died from the coronavirus over the past day.

Sadat Lari added that the condition of 5,840 people is critical.

So far, more than 6.16 million tests have been conducted in Iran for the diagnosis of coronavirus.

Iran continues to monitor the coronavirus situation in the country. According to recent reports from Iranian officials, over 975,900 people have been infected, and 48,628 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 677,900 have reportedly recovered from the disease.

The country continues to apply strict measures to contain further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease.

The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19.

The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101215085/Iran-reveals-its-COVID-19-data-for-December-1.

 

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Jordan: government closes restaurants, cafes because of coronavirus

(MENAFN)Adel Jaber, the spokesperson for the affected sectors of restaurants and cafes declared that, Sales in restaurants and cafes in Jordan dropped off 65 percent.

Restaurants and cafes should be allowed to serve shisha over again, stating that without serving shisha these sectors will not get any income, He further said.

He also requested for canceling Friday lockdown, and plummeting curfew hours.

According to the Head of the Parliamentary Health and Environment Committee IssaKhashashneh, shisha accelerate the spread of the coronavirus, noting that he is not with serving shisha in restaurants and cafes.


Restaurants and cafes have been damaged owing to the decisions applied by the government,stated Omar Al-Awwad, the Head of the Restaurant Owners Syndicate.

Source: https://menafn.com/1101215382/Jorda...urants-cafes-because-of-coronavirus&source=30.

 

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Kuwait allows domestic workers to return from December 7

The cost of each returning worker has been fixed at KD270 to cover quarantine expenses

Source: https://gulfbusiness.com/kuwait-allows-domestic-workers-to-return-from-december-7/.

 

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COVID-19: Oman allows more activities to reopen

Beginning December 1, visa issuance, cinemas, museums, beaches, kindergarten reopen

Cairo: Oman announced Tuesday it was resuming a new set of economic activities including issuance of tourist visas, cinemas and museums, further easing restrictions earlier imposed due to the spread of the new coronavirus.

A list of businesses, due to reopen starting Tuesday, included the tourist visa-issuing facilities, provided obtaining an advance reservation to stay at a hotel while abiding by procedures related to entering into and exiting the sultanate set by a state supreme committee in charge of tackling COVID-19 in Oman.

Other activities allowed to reopen comprise restaurants in shopping malls, beaches, gardens, health clubs, tourist sites including museums and fortresses, rehabilitation and curative centres, nurseries as well as kindergartens, amusement game halls and change rooms. Children aged 12 and below are allowed into all activities.

The reopening comes after approval from the Supreme Committee in charge of tackling COVID-19. The panel on Monday decided to end downsizing employee attendance at government offices, reinstating full reporting to workplaces starting from Sunday, December 6, the Omani news agency ONA reported.

All institutions were, meanwhile, urged to continue taking precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and following up full abidance, ONA added.

Oman so far has reported a tally of 123,699 virus cases and 1,423 related fatalities.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/oman/covid-19-oman-allows-more-activities-to-reopen-1.75599659.