H E Dr Ahmed bin Mohammad al Sa’eedi, Minister of Health, said that the number of cases that require hospitalisation is still low and so are death cases, confirming that the health sector in the sultanate is strong and stable.

“The death rate due to COVID-19 in Oman is not more than 0.5 per cent and healthcare system is fully functional and intact,” H E Dr Sa’eedi said on Thursday.

He, however, stressed that the epidemic is still continuing and spreading quickly among families, workplaces and society.

“Sadly, the epidemiological situation has changed during a short period, putting Oman at the forefront of countries that record high number of cases compared to its population,” he said.

He said that reports of staff gathering at workplaces for prayers and lunches have prompted the committee to reduce the number of employees to 30 per cent at public sector workplaces.

“The problem still exists and society is the main part of the solution. The virus will continue to spread if we do not adhere to the precautions,” H E Dr Sa’eedi said.