National survey to help decide reopening of schools and mosques

Muscat: The national survey that began today to check the immunity of citizens and residents in the country will help decide the reopening of schools, colleges, mosques, and other facilities that are currently closed.

While talking exclusively to the Times of Oman, Dr. Abdullah Al Qayoodhi, Consultant on Infectious Diseases and Immunology, and a senior official at the Directorate General of Disease Surveillance and Control at the Ministry of Health said: "Through the national survey, we will be able to know the immunity percentage in different areas of the Sultanate. If the community immunity is strong, it will help us in taking decisions on the reopening of schools, colleges, universities, nurseries, mosques, parks, resorts and other activities.”

“We will have to take more precautionary measures in areas where individuals with weak immunity are found or if the area has a probability of large scale infections. The total or partial closure of commercial and industrial establishments will continue in such areas," he added.

Dr. Abdullah confirmed: “The national survey will start on July 12, 2020 throughout the Sultanate and at the wilayat level in the form of a cross-sectional survey, with samples to be chosen from all the citizens of all ages except for children who are aged under five years. It will include Omani and non-Omani citizens. The Ministry of Health will contact all those covered by the national survey by phone.”