COVID-19: Oman Ministry of Health urges people not to travel unless necessary

Muscat: Oman’s Ministry of Health has urged all citizens and residents not to travel unless absolutely necessary, as the number of new COVID-19 infections increase.

Oman’s land borders are closed till further notice thereby effectively blocking people moving freely between Oman and its neighbouring countries. Oman’s border with the United Arab Emirates is a busy thoroughfare on normal days with many commuters crisscrossing the borders, which now is a no-go area for general public.

Oman’s Supreme Committee has also ordered public parks, gardens and beaches to be shut down, and has banned gatherings and group meet-up till further notice.

Alarming increase

A media report today quoted Dr. Zakaria Bin Yahya Al Balushi, consultant of infections and infectious diseases at Oman’s premium hospital, Royal Hospital as saying that there is an alarming increase in the number of COVID-19 cases admitted to the ICU in Royal Hospital.

“In comparison to the figures that we had two weeks back, the current cases being admitted shows a marked increase. These rising numbers indicate that the cases are on the increase, and that needs immediate attention. This is an early warning message to take appropriate action.”

Authorities have also requested government offices to stop duty travels abroad till further notice in an effort to bring the COVID-19 cases under control.