SC: Workplace attendance limited to 50%, Friday prayers stopped

Muscat: The Supreme Committee on Friday reviewed reports on the epidemiological situation of the virus on the domestic front and noted a sharp surge in the number of patients afflicted with Omicron, the mutated variant of the virus, coupled with a spike in the number of people admitted to hospital wards in different governorates.

The current readings point to the probability of a further rise in numbers of patients and hospitalized persons, particularly among children who have not yet been vaccinated.

To maintain the health service department’s ability to handle the situation, the Covid-19 Supreme Committee took the following decisions, which will be enforced for a period of two weeks with effect from January 23.

Firstly, limiting to 50% the number of employees who attend at the workplace in units of the State’s Administrative Apparatus (government units) and other public entities.

Secondly, suspending all conferences and exhibitions.

Thirdly, suspending congregational activities and advising the organizers to hold them without an audience, while at the same time ensuring that the participants/organizers abide by the precautionary measures announced before, including showing proof of vaccination.

Fourthly, suspending the holding of Friday prayers, while at the same time allowing mosques to hold the five daily prayers at a capacity of 50% at each mosque and in line with the procedures announced by the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Health.

The Supreme Committee urges all establishments permitted to practice their activities (like restaurants, cafeterias, commercial complexes, trade outlets, and public halls) to stick to the measures set for such activities, especially the need to operate at a capacity of 50%, show proof of vaccination, observe physical distance and wear face masks, among other procedures.

The Supreme Committee affirmed that it will review its decisions and the epidemiological situation on a regular basis and make new decisions accordingly.

The Supreme Committee also urges all to take all pending vaccinations and go for booster doses. The authorities concerned are urged to show no lenience in applying the precautionary measures, namely to ensure commitment to all measures at residences, the workplace, and public places.