Coronavirus: Dubai crisis management chief calls on community to stand together to drive down infection rates

Dubai's crisis management chief has issued a rallying cry to the public to commit to Covid-19 safety measures after the country recorded its highest number of infections since May. Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed, chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, said "everyone is responsible" for helping to stem the spread of the virus. The UAE reported 930 new coronavirus cases on Thursday - its largest daily tally since May 22 - bringing its overall total to 76,911. Five more patients died as the death toll since the start of the outbreak rose to 398. Officials said there had been a five-fold spike in cases over the last month, prompting renewed calls for people to comply with safety measures such as social distancing, wearing masks and avoiding large gatherings. "Every member of the community is a partner in fighting the crisis," said Sheikh Mansour. "We must continue working with a strong commitment to protect ourselves, our families and others around us so that we can tide over this crisis and avoid any setbacks that can compromise the progress we have achieved. "The health and well-being of the community is a great responsibility and they are our highest priorities. The leadership’s strategic objectives are driven by these goals. There will be no compromise. We will work relentlessly to fulfill this responsibility." The crisis committee is continuing to work closely with local and federal authorities to combat the spread of Covid-19, Sheikh Mansour said. He called on community members visiting malls, restaurants and other commercial outlets to adhere to strict guidelines implemented by authorities in Dubai. He said those who flout laws put in place to protect the public will face fines in line with directives issued by the government. The committee highlighted that the support of the public had been crucial in reducing infection rates earlier in the outbreak - but was needed once more to address a recent surge in cases. Members of the public were reminded of the importance of sticking to basic health and safety measures such as regularly washing hands with soap and wearing a face mask at all times when outside the house, especially in indoor areas such as shopping malls and restaurants.

Coronavirus: Dubai crisis management chief calls on community to stand together to drive down infection rates

Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed, chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, said precautionary measures must be followed