The number of COVID-19 cases has been declining in the sultanate in the last few days, with the average daily count dipping below the 1,000 mark as a night lockdown continues to be enforced. 

Data from the Ministry of Health (MoH) showed that the daily case count went down from a high of 1,454 on Monday last week, to 1,128 on Tuesday followed by 928 on Wednesday and 927 on Thursday. Data for Friday and Saturday are awaited.

On Thursday, the total number of cases in the country was 193,253, while the number of deaths was 2,010 after nine more were reported on the day. There were 1,275 recoveries, accounting for a total of 173,123 patients who have recovered from COVID-19. The number of patients in health institutions remained high – 833 – including 275 in intensive care.

However, the number of individuals who have been vaccinated also continues to rise as well as people staying indoors in the evening as a result of the night movement ban. More than two weeks since the 9pm-4am lockdown came into effect, the population is reconciled to the fact and got used to it, turning compulsion into an opportunity to spend more time with family.

“It is a win-win situation. I have come to realise that being with family is precious. Moreover, by being home we are preventing the spread of the virus,” said Seeb resident Saif al Obaidani.

Despite the initially held opinion by many that the lockdown would not be effective, it is evident now that there is hope as the daily infection count falls while strengthening relationships and family ties. 

“I get to see my husband at home more often and we have used this time to mend our differences. 

We also do things together and in doing so, we have a stronger bond. Besides, we feel safe at home rather than going out because you never know who you meet out there,” said Saada al Naamani, a mother of four.

According to authorities, there is a high level of compliance with the lockdown rules with Royal Oman Police registering a limited number of violations.