Oman

Omicron is prevalent with over 4,000 new cases

 
The authorities revealed that the 'Omicron' mutant of Covid-19 is currently prevalent in the country in conjunction with its widespread spread worldwide.

Dr Amal bint Saif al Ma'ani, Director of Prevention and Infection Control at the Ministry of Health, said the analysis of the numbers 'confirm that the Omicron mutant is prevalent in the Sultanate of Oman with 99 per cent of the existing infections.'

During a TV interview on Oman Channel on Saturday, she indicated that the epidemiological situation is escalating day by day, expecting 'a further rise in infections during the coming period.'

She added, 'The doubling will take place within six days,' pointing to the spread of this strain in all governorates at the same time and with the same numbers.

'Out of every 100 people who tested, 25 were infected with Coronavirus,' Al Ma'ani noted, expressing her fear that this spread would affect the health situation and health facilities in the country. She confirmed that the decisions of the Supreme Committee to limit the spread of virus aim at preserving the policy of conducting business and occupational safety, besides providing health care for all citizens.

Meanwhile, the Sultanate of Oman recorded a rise in coronavirus infections. On Sunday, the Ministry of Health reported 4,166 cases spread over in three days, taking the total number of cases registered in the Sultanate at 322,438 cases. The ministry also reported three deaths, taking the total number of deaths to 4,128. The total of those who recovered reached 305,675.

As a preventive measure, the Supreme Committee announced some restrictions which became applicable from Sunday. The number of employees who are required to come to workplaces in the units of the state's administrative apparatus and other public legal persons to be reduced to 50 per cent, in addition to postponing conferences and exhibitions, as well as postponing activities of a public nature or holding them without mass attendance.

The Committee also decided to restrict Friday prayers and continue five times daily prayers in mosques with 50 per cent capacity.

@zainabalnasseri