Covid-19: Oman's Health Ministry unveils details of serological survey

Times News Service

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Muscat: The Ministry of Health has published highlights of the first phase of the National Serological Survey for COVID-19 and also discussed changes for the next phase of the survey. In a statement, the Ministry said, "The survey is being conducted in stages consisting of four cycles. In the first phase, the challenges faced by the teams were overcome and the collection of samples completed."

"A detailed report on the results will be prepared," the Ministry said, adding that the second phase, which was supposed to start last week, was rescheduled due to the holidays and the closure between governorates. "The first phase resulted in some questions being raised, including the method of selection and other procedures. The selection will be random to avoid bias and individuals selected will receive a text message from the Ministry," the statement explained.

Additionally, participants will not be subject to isolation after sample collection and will not have to wear an electronic tracking bracelet. There are no legal consequences for non-participation as it is voluntary. The Survey has received positive feedback from the community as can be seen through participation," the statement said.