Ministry of Public Health today announced 1,648 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, with 4,451 people having recovered from the virus in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of recovered people in Qatar to 30,290. The Ministry also announced two deaths due to the virus.

The reason for the large increase in the number of recoveries is due to the application of the latest international recommendations regarding criteria for recovering from COVID-19 infection, which was approved by the Ministry of Public Health.

The Ministry stated that the two new deaths recorded are for a 53 and 77 year old, who had both received the necessary medical care in intensive care. The Ministry of Public Health offers sincere condolences and great sympathy to the families of the deceased.

The total number of positive COVID-19 cases recorded in Qatar till now stands at 56910 and there are 26582 active cases under treatment. So far, 38  people died from the coronavirus in Qatar. Ministry conducted 4081 tests in last 24 hours taking the total tests done so far to 222069  tests.

Over the last 24 hours, the Ministry also recorded 27 new patients being admitted to intensive care due to the virus, bringing the total number of cases that currently in intensive care to 232.

The new confirmed cases of infection have been introduced to complete isolation in the various medical facilities in the country, where they receive the necessary healthcare according to the health status of each case.

The Ministry of Health revealed that infections increased due to family gatherings and visits between friends and extended families, and people ignoring the preventive measures recommended by the concerned authorities; the most important of which is staying at home and maintaining social distance.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 should either quickly contact the 16000 helpline or go directly to one of the designated health centers for testing the virus. This is important as the earlier the disease is detected the easier it will be to receive the right treatment and recover from it.

The four main testing centers are:
•    Muaither Health Centre
•    Rawdat Al Khalil Health Centre
•    Um Slal Health Centre; and
•    Al Gharafa Health Centre

The Ministry of Public Health states that Qatar is still in the peak phase of the virus outbreak, which is seeing a rise in the number of infections recorded daily, and therefore it is necessary to adhere to, more than ever before, the preventive measures and social measures recommended.

The Ministry also stresses the importance for the elderly or those suffering from chronic diseases and their family members to follow strict measures to reduce the chances of infection, including refraining from social visits.

The Ministry of Public Health stresses that because the coronavirus outbreak is at the peak stage in Qatar, it is important not to leave the house except for when absolutely essential. It also stresses the importance of adhering to all measures to protect against virus infection, including maintaining social distancing both in the workplace and public places, as well as wearing a medical mask and avoiding social visits to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.