The Ministry of Health (MoH) has registered 18 more cases of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). All the 18 patients are citizens, the ministry stated on Tuesday.

It said that 11 patients are linked to contact with infected patients, five to UK and UAE travel while two are under epidemiological investigations. ‘This brings the total number of cases in the sultanate to 84. Of these, 17 patients have recovered.’

MoH bans ‘Air Doctor’

MoH has said that ‘Air Doctor’ product is not approved by it or any of the international regulatory authorities. ‘A product under the name ‘Air Doctor’ is being circulated in the form of a card which carries medical claims that are not scientifically proven in terms of protection against bacteria and viruses.’

Setting aside rooms in hotels

The Ministry of Tourism has called on owners of hotel establishments in the sultanate to set aside rooms for free as a precautionary measure. ‘Hotel establishments need to provide rooms for the said purpose under the supervision of the Ministry of Health,’ it said.

Oman Air suspends more flights

Oman Air has suspended flights to Dubai and Nairobi. ‘Flights to Nairobi will remain suspended from March 25 to 31 while those to Dubai from March 26 to April 8.’

Adhere to home quarantine procedures

The Ministry of Manpower has asked workers in the private sector to adhere to the procedures of home quarantine. ‘Firms should not insist on employees reporting for work during the period of home quarantine. All workers in the private sector must follow the instructions issued by the Ministry of Health to prevent the spread of coronavirus.’

Parking payment in Muscat

Muscat Municipality has said that all payments related to parking (new permit, violation and renewal) can be made via www.mm.gov.om or the Baladiyeti app. ‘ Fee can also be paid by sending SMS (90091) or on Baladiyeti app.’