ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates on Thursday announced 460 new coronavirus cases and 2 deaths, raising the total number of infections and fatalities in the country to 5,825 and 35 respectively, the country’s Ministry of Health and Prevention said in a statement carried by state news agency WAM.

The deceased are Asian nationals and had pre-existing chronic illnesses.

The statement also added that 61 more patients have recovered, bringing the total number of coronavirus-recovered cases in the country to 1,095.

The spike in new cases can be attributed to the accelerated investigative measures and extensive testing being done by the ministry in order to contain the spread of COVID-19. The UAE has conducted over 25,000 additional COVID-19 tests among UAE citizens and residents over the past few days, the ministry said.

The new coronavirus cases are from various nationalities, all of whom are in a stable condition and receiving the necessary care, according to the statement.

The ministry called on the public to cooperate with health authorities and comply with all precautionary measures, particularly social distancing protocols, to ensure the safety and protection of the public. — SG