Covid-19: UAE reports 1,311 new cases as Pfizer vaccination gets underway in Dubai

The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) reported 1,311 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, bringing the total number of recorded cases in the UAE to 198,435.

The new cases were detected after 138,914 additional Covid-19 tests were conducted over the past 24 hours.

The infected individuals are from various nationalities, are in a stable condition, and receiving the necessary care, MoHAP said.

In a statement, the ministry stressed its aim to continue expanding the scope of testing nationwide to facilitate the early detection of coronavirus cases and carry out the necessary treatment.

MoHAP also announced two additional deaths due to Covid-19 complications, bringing the total death toll to 647.

It also noted that an additional 1,495 individuals had fully recovered, bringing the total number of recoveries to 174,479.

Pfizer vaccination drive
The Pfizer vaccination campaign, which began in Dubai on Wednesday, is now underway at six Dubai Health Authority (DHA) centres in the emirate.

In the initial phase of the campaign, the inoculation will be carried out across four categories:

First category: UAE nationals and resident elders aged 60 years and above, people with chronic diseases and people of determination

Second category: The second category includes frontliners in both the public and private sectors

Third category: Vital-sector workers

Fourth category: Members of the public who wish to get vaccinated

The Dubai Media Office also answered some FAQs related to the programme:

Is the vaccine voluntary or compulsory in Dubai?
The vaccination is voluntary for all residents and citizens.

Can a person who was infected with Covid-19 take the vaccine?
Yes, but he/she will need to take the vaccination after three months from the date of infection.

If someone has taken any other vaccine other than the Covid-19 vaccine (for example, the influenza vaccine), is it safe to take the Covid-19 vaccine?
Yes, but you need to wait for more than four weeks after the influenza vaccine to be able to take the Covid-19 vaccine.

Am I exempt from taking a PCR test for travel purposes or for pre-surgical procedures in Dubai if I have taken the Covid-19 vaccine?
No, you are not exempt. For the time being, everyone is required to follow policies and regulations that are related to Covid-19 testing and screening in Dubai.

Can I stop wearing a face mask after taking the Covid-19 vaccine?
Everyone is required to follow all the precautionary measures set, including wearing a face mask after taking the Covid-19 vaccine.

Frequently asked questions and answers related to #Dubai's COVID- 19 vaccination campaign. pic.twitter.com/m4OsTxENI2

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 23, 2020