UAE reports 424 new Covid-19 cases, says 20-40 age group ‘most affected’

The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) reported 424 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 66,617.

The cases were detected after the UAE conducted 70,079 additional tests over the past 24 hours as part of its campaign to expand the scope of screening nationwide to facilitate the early detection of coronavirus cases and carry out the necessary treatment.

The infected individuals are from different nationalities and are in a stable condition, the ministry said. They are receiving the necessary care, it added.

MoHAP also announced two additional deaths due to Covid-19 complications, bringing the total death toll in the country to 372.

It also announced that an additional 112 individuals had fully recovered from the virus, bringing the total number of recoveries to 58,408.

The ministry called on the public to co-operate with health authorities and adhere to physical distancing.

All members of society have a responsibility to adhere to the precautions, stressed Dr. Farida Al Hosani, the official spokesperson for the UAE health sector.

She attributed the increase in the number of cases to disregard for preventive measures such as wearing facemasks and social distancing. Many people were also engaging in social activities such as family gatherings and handshaking, she stated.

“It has been noticed that the 20 to 40 age group is the most affected due to the wrong perception that their youth will protect them for being infected,” she told official news agency WAM.

“There is a pressing need to continue promoting awareness about the healthy practices related to preventing the spread of Covid-19,” she added.