Covid-19: UAE conducts over half a million coronavirus tests

The UAE has conducted more than a half a million coronavirus tests in the shortest time, said a top official as the world marks 100 days since China notified the World Health Organisation about the Covid-19 coronavirus.

"Today in the UAE we have reached a record number of examinations, and within a short period of time. 539,195 examinations have been conducted so far," said Abdul Rahman Al Owais, UAE Minister for Health.

The UAE has confirmed 300 new cases of coronavirus bringing the total number of infected persons in the country to 2,659 as of Wednesday, said the Ministry of Health and Prevention.

At a virtual press conference, Dr. Farida Al Hosani, the official spokesperson of the UAE health sector, said 53 patients have made a full recovery taking the total to 239.

Responding to a questions on the use of monitoring patients in home quarantine, Dr. Al Hosani said the UAE has started using the application 'Stay Home' to monitor people in home quarantine. "We urge people in the UAE to make use of the app," she said.

She noted that the drive-through testing centers in Abu Dhabi have been successful.

"Preparations are ongoing to have drive-through testing centers in all emirates. Priority at the facilities is given to the elderly, disabled and those with respiratory conditions," she said adding that people should wear masks while at the testing centres.

Answering a question about if the UAE is having a high-rate of recovery, she said the recovery rate around the world is 25 percent and that there are recoveries from mild infections in 2-3 weeks. "For severe cases it's much longer than that, she said.

Don't dispose of masks and gloves irresponsibly

Dr. Al Hosani has condemned reports of some UAE residents who litter masks and gloves.

"Such behaviors of littering masks are bad and we condemn them," she said adding that the masks can be contaminated which might cause the spread of coronavirus.

"Masks should be disposed of properly in garbage containers. There is need to promote good behaviours among the community," said the official.

Ismail Sebugwaawo

A professional journalist originating from Kampala, Uganda, Ismail is a happy father with strong attachment to family and great values for humanity. He has practiced journalism in UAE for the past 13 years, covering the country's parliament (FNC) and crimes, including Abu Dhabi Police, public prosecution and courts. He also reports about important issues in education, public health and the environment, with a keen interest in human interest stories. When out of reporting duties, he serves the Ugandan community in Abu Dhabi as he wants to see his countrymen happy. Exercising and reading are part of his free time.