The committee concerned with following up on the status of the novel coronavirus held today (Monday) afternoon its 19th meeting headed by the Minister of Health, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, with the attendance of the committee members who represent a number of relevant government sectors. They reviewed all reports and latest developments, and the epidemiological situation of the virus worldwide and the cases recorded in the Kingdom, as well as enhancing the precautionary measures at all points of entry.
MOH's spokesperson, Dr. Muhammad al-Abdulaali said that there are 110,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 107 countries around the world, with 62,000 recovered, or 56% and 3,800 deaths or 3.4% of the total cases.
So far, he added, the Kingdom has recorded 15 confirmed cases, 7 of them came from Iran, 3 from Iraq, 4 cases were in close contact with the previously declared 11 cases (3 of them were women who contracted the infection from their husbands), in addition to an American who stopped over in Philippines and Italy. The cases are isolated in specialized hospitals in Dammam and Qatif and their condition is stable, he said, adding that the American is in critical condition and isolated in the ICU of a hospital in Riyadh.
He said that more than 500,000 passengers have been examined at the Kingdom's ports, in addition to other 2,084 examinations. Also, 468 persons who were in contact with infected cases have been examined, bringing the total of those who have been quarantined or isolated at home for precautionary measures to 1,153 persons. The 937 Service Center received more than 35,000 calls about COVID-19.
He warned against spreading rumors and video clips on social media pages, as the community is the line of protection against such rumors.
He underlined the importance of following the health-awareness guidelines about the novel coronavirus and called on everybody to contact the 937 Service Center for any inquiries about COVID-19.