File image used for illustrative purposes: Officials check medical equipment and coronavirus testing kits provided by the World Health Organisation at the Al Maktoum International airport in Dubai. Image Credit: AFP

Dubai: Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) reported 14 new cases of coronavirus on Monday, bringing the total number of confirmed COVID-19 infections in the country to 59.

In a statement, the health ministry said the cases involve four Emiratis, three Italians, two Bangladeshis, two Nepalese, a Russian, an Indian and a Syrian national.

It added that the latest cases were discovered following an "active and continuous investigation" and examining those who came in contact with previously confirmed infected individuals who were quarantined.

The ministry affirmed that since the emergence of the epidemic in China, UAE authorities have spared no effort in monitoring the spread of the virus in the country and handling it according to the highest medical standards. It added that several precautionary measures have been put in place, including the installation of detection thermal imaging systems and health checks at the country's border entry points, and isolating confirmed and suspected cases.

Out of the confirmed cases, there have been seven recoveries.

The ministry urged members of the public to adhere to preventative health measures and to refer to the tips offered on its website to prevent the spread of the disease.

"The ministry and local health authorities recommend members of the community to adopt healthy habits that help protect individuals from infectious diseases, including washing hands well with soap and water, and covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs and viruses," the statement said.

People with respiratory symptoms were also advised to avoid mixing in crowded places, while members of the public were told to avoid misinformation and rumours by referring to official sources for information.