MUSCAT: Ambassador His Excellency Munu Mahawar has appealed to Indians living in Oman to remain calm and not to panic as the Sultanate government is taking all necessary steps to address the coronavirus (Covid-19) situation in the country.

Oman on Saturday confirmed 52 coronavirus cases in the country that also include an Indian citizen. “I would also urge all members of the Indian community to stay calm and not panic. Government of Oman is taking all necessary steps to address the situation,” Mahawar said on Saturday.

He urged Indians in Oman to take advisory notifications from the authorities “and observing social distancing, which cannot be overemphasised. We all have to play a role in preventing the spread of this disease.”

According to the Ambassador, taking precautionary measures such as social gathering helps to prevent the spread of the virus. “We understand that all those who may have come in contact with an infected person are being quarantined. Hence, if you have not been contacted by health officials, there is no need for you to be unduly concerned. At the same time, take all possible precautionary measures and avoid social gatherings,” he said.

Regarding queries about travel ban to India, His Excellency had this to say: “Given the restrictions placed on and risks associated with travel, it is best to avoid travelling at this stage. The measures taken by the Governments are temporary and will be reviewed from time to time.”

The Indian Embassy team, according to the Ambassador remains available to 24/7 to address any queries. “You may contact us on our helpline numbers and emails which have been widely circulated,” he added