Three more people have died from the novel coronavirus in the United Arab Emirates, taking the total number of the fatalities from the virus to 25 in the country, state news agency WAM reported on Monday citing a statement from the Ministry of Health and Prevention. Reporting no new cases on Monday, the ministry announced that 172 coronavirus patients have fully recovered, raising the total number of recoveries to 852. However, 387 new cases were recorded on Sunday, bringing the total of coronavirus infections n the country to 4,123. Speaking during the regular media briefing, the official spokesperson for the UAE health sector, Dr Farida Al Hosani, commended the launch of the National Home Testing Program for People of Determination. "The program, targeting this important segment of the society who have difficulty doing tests outdoors, is part of the national drive-through testing national program." The spokeswoman called on the public to wear gloves whenever they go out. "However, do not touch your personal stuff when wearing gloves, particularly when using your phone, and safely dispose of them." It is still so critical to clean your hands with water and soap on a regular basis, she said. "Cleaning and washing our hands are much better and safer than wearing gloves." Wearing one-time disposable surgical gloves is highly advisable, she said. "If not available, hand-made cloth masks can be used but need to be cleaned regularly with water and soap." Al Hosani added that many studies have proved that social distancing rules are crucial to reduce virus spread including physical distancing and avoiding gathering. They can contribute significantly to reducing the spread of the virus and the number of infected cases, and thus limiting the rise in cases over a short period of time. — Agencies
