Watch: Health Minister Talks Vaccine and COVID-19 Situation in Oman

The Supreme Committee in charge of dealing with COVID-19 held a press conference earlier today (January 14th). Here are some points that are worth knowing:

• 82% of those who have been targeted to get vaccinated have received it thus far during the first phase; about 22,749 people.
• It’s been clarified that taking the vaccine protects people from the disease, yet there is no scientific proof to date that the recipient of the vaccine will not be a carrier of the virus.
• There is no permit approved to vaccinate those under 16 years of age, or pregnant or lactating women, but if the health authorities consider that the risk of the disease is higher, the vaccination option will be offered to them
• The committee is saddened by the fact tha COVID-19 tracking bracelets are being thrown away by those arriving to the Sultanate, so the decision was taken yesterday to fine those violators; that if the bracelet is not returned, it will result in a strict fine.
• People returning from travel must self-isolate for 7 days, and they may retake the test on the 8th day or continue self-isolation until the 14th day.
• If the pandemic continues to exist, the most probable scenario is that blended learning will continue in schools.

These conferences are usually held in the Arabic language, but the Omani Minister of Health always makes sure to address the public in English as well, to voice his concerns to a wider audience.

Watch full speech below.