MUSCAT: Ministry of Health officials in the country have said it more than enough times — social distancing is the best way to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

The Supreme Committee have banned gatherings of all types in order to contain the spread of the deadly virus that has so far infected 12,223 people and claimed 50 lives. But despite repeated warnings from authorities, some people continue to violate the social distancing rules and gather at public places.

On Tuesday, Royal Oman Police fined several people for defying the Supreme Committee decisions and gathering in public places. In North Al Batinah and Al Dhakiliyah, a group of citizens were detained and fined for gathering.

Early this week, a group of expatriates were detained and fined after they flouted Supreme Committee’s coronavirus guidance and attended a funeral ceremony in Al Buraimi.

Since May 28, Oman has seen a dramatic surge in new cases of the coronavirus, with the number nearly tripling as the country has experienced an increase in its infection rate while easing restrictions.

His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Al Saidi, Minister of Health said the cases have increased due to Ramadan and Eid gatherings and people are still flouting the social distancing rules. “If you look at the figures, the cases began to increase during the second half of Ramadan and then it just shot up during Eid because people are flouting the social distancing rules and they are still gathering. This is a serious concern. The numbers have increased over the last few days because of this,” said Dr. Ahmed Al Saidi, Minister of Health

“The only solution to reduce the impact of the virus is to follow social distancing and we all have to follow that,” Al Saidi added.