The UAE government yesterday announced the completion of the National Disinfection Programme from 24 June 2020. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi did the briefing. The spokesperson from the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), Dr. Saif Dhaheri, and Dr. Farida Al Hosani, spokesperson of the UAE health sector, also spoke.

The officials briefed about COVID-19 related developments and steps taken by the teams to mitigate the crisis.

At the briefing, it was shared that more than 44,200 additional Covid-19 tests were conducted among Emirati citizens and residents. During these tests, 450 new cases were detected.

702 patients have fully recovered. Now the total recoveries are more than 34,405. A total of 11,421 individuals are still undergoing treatment; however, most of them are in stable condition.

Two deaths were reported, taking the total number of fatalities to 307.

The government spokesperson shared that success in the treatment and prevention of CVOID-19 cases can be attributed to collaboration among state departments and compliance of UAE citizens and residents.

It was also briefed that the health experts in the UAE have started phase III of the clinical trials of a COVID-19 vaccine. Trials are being held in cooperation with Abu Dhabi’s Group42 and Chinese pharmaceutical company Sinopharm China National Biotec Group (CNBG). It is expected that the vaccine can go for commercial production by the end of this year or early 2021, depending on the success in the trial phase.

The spokesperson shared that UAE’s medical research aims at studies on pandemics, diagnostic reviews, and clinical trials (including developing vaccines). 

The UAE, shared in the briefing, looks forward to cooperation and collaboration with various state and non-state actors in its fight against the deadly virus.

The briefing also shared that those who have chronic diseases, such as heart diseases, hypertension, or respiratory illness, can develop a severe form of infection when infected with novel coronavirus. The officials reiterated people to comply with all precautionary and preventive measures.

Al Dhaheri, speaking about the National Disinfection Programme, said children below 12 years can now enter commercial centers and restaurants.

The Program has successfully sterilized all public places, public transport.

Restrictions on public gatherings will remain in place. The official also advised people to avoid family visits. Emphasis was on following social distancing norms, and wearing masks and gloves whenever people leave their homes. Not more than three people are allowed in a vehicle that is not shared within the family.

The official added that legal action would be taken against violators of preventive and safety measures.

The media must continue to play a constructive role in sharing information about COVID-19 control. 

WAM