The rising number of COVID-19 cases in Oman has not affected the health sector and all health establishments are coping well and more is being done to boost the healthcare system. There is also a plan to increase the capacity of intensive care units.

H E Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al Sa’eedi, Minister of Health, said that intensive care units are experiencing immense pressure. “COVID-19 has not affected the healthcare system in Oman and all health establishments are still intact and coping. There is also a plan to increase the capacity of intensive care units,” he said.

“There is cooperation and willingness between government and private health establishments to deal with the situation, but a plan is also under way to set up a field hospital in Muscat Governorate for non-critical cases, with a capacity ranging between 250-300 beds,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Saif bin Salim al Abri, director general of disease control and surveillance, said that a national survey on measuring the prevalence of COVID-19 will begin on July 12. “The survey will cover all age groups, Omanis and expatriates alike,” he said, adding that the 10-week survey will test COVID-19-related antibodies in the patients’ blood. 
 

Dr Abri also spoke of a ‘co-existence document’ (on ways to live with/adapt to the disease), which has been approved by the specialised team headed by Dr Abdullah al Harrasi, chairman of the Public Authority for Radio and Television.

“The document will be submitted to the Supreme Committee for endorsement. The document sets guidelines for a gradual return to normal life, along with the application of precautionary measures,” he said.

Speaking about the smart application, Tarassud Plus, a type of platform that is used for data collection, data analysis and medical detection, Dr Abri said, “The app provides communication with people who undergo home quarantine, thrice a day, and in five languages.”