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Combating coronavirus: Stick to the safety measures, social distancing, says UAE health official

Some families are still distributing food among neighbours and giving away Iftar meals.

People should continue observing social distancing rules and remain cautious to prevent the spread of Covid-19, a senior health official has said.
Dr Farida Al Hosani, official spokesperson of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap), said reopening of malls, service centres and other public places did not mean people can stop sticking to the safety measures.
During a virtual Press briefing on Monday, Al Hosani urged the public to avoid crowded public places and practise the two-metre social distancing rule.
She called on everybody to take care of their loved ones, mainly the elderly, children and people with chronic and respiratory diseases and weak immune system. "Children, elderly ad high-risk individuals should continue to avoid going out at all times. Masks remain mandatory in public areas," she said.
She stressed on the need to follow a strict personal hygiene, healthy life style with workouts and healthy diet, which all help keep them safe against Covid-19.
Dr Amna Al Dahhak Al Shamsi, official spokesperson of the UAE Government, said that 680 new cases announced on Monday included four families that gathered for Taraweeh prayers, disregarding the instructions of the Awqaf and the authorities' ban on congregational prayers. The total number of Covid-19 cases in the UAE is now 18,878.
With the new recoveries of 577, the total number of recovered people stands now at 5,381, which is 28 per cent of the overall cases. Three people died due to complications, bringing the toll to 201. As many as 13,296 people are still receiving treatment, she said.
Dr Al Hosani pointed out that some families are still distributing food among neighbours and giving away Iftar meals. "Even though it is being done out of good intention it increases the risk of the spread of the virus. Such habits should be replaced with donating to the official charity channels."
She added that even during family visits, face masks should be used while keeping a safe distance and avoiding direct contact.
mary@khaleejtimes.com